SBM ITB Responds to Students' Psychological Needs by Organizing Free Psychological Counseling Sessions for Students

Oleh Adi Permana

Editor -

A psychologist in a counseling session with an SBM ITB student on Wednesday (21/6/2023)
(Source: Muhammad Fajrin Mubarak)

BANDUNG, ITB.ac.id—SBM ITB, in partnership with the Ikatan Mahasiswa Kewirausahaan (IMK) "Artha" and the Indonesian Association of Clinical Psychologists (IPK), organized a Free Psychological Counseling Session for students on Wednesday, July 21, 2023, at Labtek XIX Gd. Freeport SBM ITB. The event was designed to improve the overall well-being and mental health of students.

The decision to offer free psychological counseling was made in response to the growing number of students seeking psychological services. A significant number of students require support, but they face barriers such as the expensive fees for consultations or the unease of discussing their emotions with a psychologist. This activity was created to offer free psychological services to all SBM ITB students.

"We realize that mental health is crucial for students. They often face high pressure and stress in coping with academic demands and daily life. Through this event, we hope to meet their needs and raise awareness about the importance of mental health," said Frederika Amelia, the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and a student of Entrepreneurship 2024.

Ermilda, a psychologist involved in the event, emphasizes that consulting with a psychologist is essential not only for addressing mental disturbances but also for unlocking individual potentials. Significant changes in behaviour that impact daily activities, such as insomnia or reduced ability to concentrate, may suggest the need for professional assistance.

Occasionally, people may have a lack of awareness of their condition, while those in their vicinity may be perceptive to these changes. In such situations, the involvement of a psychologist is essential.

A psychologist in a counseling session with an SBM ITB student on Wednesday (21/6/2023)
(Source: Muhammad Fajrin Mubarak)

Luthfi Rahman, one of the participants, acknowledged that attending this activity improved his well-being and enhanced his understanding of the core issues he is currently dealing with.

"Even though people are now aware of mental health, many are still afraid to visit a psychologist. Sometimes, they assume that they have mental problems, but when taken to a psychologist, it turns out not to be the case," said Luthfi.

Frederika expressed her desire for the psychological counseling sessions to continue, as they have proven to be beneficial and effective for students. Additionally, she expressed her hope that ITB could extend this service to all students, as it is a pressing matter that requires immediate attention.

"This collaboration is expected to mutually benefit students, institutions, and other professions, especially clinical psychologists, in advancing education in Indonesia," Frederika stated.

Reporter: Bashravie Thamrin

Translator: Anggi Nurdiani

Editor: Hanifa Juliana


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