Mental Health Crisis Among Indonesian Girls

The well-being of adolescent girls is a critical concern, particularly within the educational setting. Recent research sheds light on the significant disparity in mental health outcomes between boys and girls in Indonesian schools, revealing a pressing need for targeted interventions and supportive school environments.

Hormonal Changes and Mental Health

A collaborative study by the Health Collaborative Center (HCC), Fokus Kesehatan Indonesia (FKI), and Yayasan BUMN found that girls are 2.5 times more likely to experience mental health issues at school. Dr. Ray Wagiu Basrowi, MKK, FRSP, attributes this, in part, to the significant impact of hormonal changes, especially during late adolescence and menstruation. These fluctuations can dramatically affect both physical and emotional well-being, increasing the risk of mental health problems. The school environment, with its inherent pressures, can further exacerbate these challenges.

Lack of Physical Activity and Gender Inequality

The study also highlights the detrimental effects of limited access to physical activity. Exercise is a proven stress reliever, yet the research indicates that girls often have fewer opportunities for physical activity in schools. Dr. Basrowi notes a concerning imbalance in school sports facilities, often dominated by boys, leaving girls with limited options. This marginalization, beginning in adolescence, contributes to increased vulnerability to mental health issues among girls.

Methodology

Conducted in October 2024, the study employed a mixed-methods approach (quantitative and qualitative) with a cross-sectional design. Expert validation meetings followed in November 2024. Data collection involved 741 students and 97 teachers from three Jakarta high schools (two public schools in East Jakarta and one private religious school in South Jakarta), selected using purposive sampling. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire 25 (SDQ-25) was used for students, and the Self-Reporting Questionnaire 20 (SRQ) for teachers.

Why are girls more prone to mental health issues at school?

The study indicates that hormonal changes during adolescence and menstruation significantly impact physical and emotional well-being, increasing the risk of mental health problems. The school environment can worsen these issues.

How does lack of physical activity affect girls' mental health in school?

Limited access to physical activity contributes to mental health challenges. The lack of opportunities, often due to school sports facilities being dominated by boys, increases stress and vulnerability to mental health issues.

What methods were used in the study on girls' mental health?

The study employed a mixed-methods approach (quantitative and qualitative) with a cross-sectional design, using the SDQ-25 for students and the SRQ-20 for teachers. Data was collected from students and teachers in three Jakarta high schools.

What is the key finding of the study concerning girls' mental health at school?

The research highlights the disproportionate mental health challenges faced by girls in school due to hormonal changes and limited access to physical activity and support. It emphasizes the urgent need for more inclusive school environments.

What specific tools were used to gather data in the research?

The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire 25 (SDQ-25) was used for students, and the Self-Reporting Questionnaire 20 (SRQ) for teachers to collect data.

Where was the research conducted?

The research was conducted in three Jakarta high schools—two public schools in East Jakarta and one private religious school in South Jakarta.

Key Findings and Implications

This research underscores the disproportionate mental health challenges faced by girls in school, largely due to hormonal fluctuations and limited access to physical activity and support. The findings strongly suggest a critical need for schools to foster more inclusive and supportive environments to better address the unique mental health needs of female students. Further research and targeted interventions are necessary to mitigate this disparity and ensure the well-being of all students.