FK-KMK UGM. FK-KMK UGM. Mental health issues among university students have become a pressing concern amid growing academic and social pressures. Students often face challenges such as pessimism, difficulty finding happiness, and even depression.

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a vital intervention that helps strengthen individuals in crisis. This approach can be implemented not only by medical professionals, psychologists, or psychiatrists but also by anyone trained in the basics of PFA. Within the academic environment, Academic Advisors (AA) play a crucial role in motivating students and assisting them in self-actualization.

Recognizing the importance of AA in providing initial psychological support, the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FK-KMK) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) organized a “Psychological First Aid Training for Undergraduate Academic Advisors Batch 1.”

This training was held at the 8th-floor auditorium of the Tahir Northern Wing Building, FK-KMK UGM, from Tuesday to Thursday, November 19-21, 2024. It brought together 60 undergraduate academic advisors as the first batch of a series of psychological training programs planned for 2025.

The program featured speakers from the Center for Public Mental Health (CPMH) at UGM’s Faculty of Psychology. It aimed to equip academic advisors with the knowledge and skills to detect early signs of mental health issues among their students. Moreover, the training provided practical guidance on administering psychological and mental health first aid.

This initiative underscores FK-KMK UGM’s commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment that prioritizes students’ mental health. By conducting this training, FK-KMK UGM not only enhances the capacity of academic advisors but also strengthens the synergy between the institution and its students to create a mentally and emotionally supportive learning atmosphere.

The program aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3, Good Health and Well-being through mental health promotion in academic settings; SDG 4, Quality Education by fostering an inclusive learning environment; SDG 16, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by reinforcing mental health-friendly institutions; and, SDG 17, Partnerships for the Goals through strategic collaboration. (Reporter: Fauziah Nurhasanah/Editor: Isroq Adi Subakti)