When dissociation is mistaken for possession: Implications for adolescent mental health in Indonesia

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented multifaceted challenges globally, impacting adolescent health. Among these, food security and nutrition are intertwined closely with mental health outcomes. In Indonesia, with its diverse socio-economic landscape, these interconnections may have been exacerbated by the pandemic. This study investigated the relationship between food security, nutrition and adolescent mental health in Indonesia during COVID-19. Longitudinal data were collected from 511 adolescent boys and girls in 2021-2022 in Gunungkidul district, Yogyakarta. Food security was measured using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), and the validated Kessler-10 Psychological Distress Scale (K10) was used to measure adolescent depression. Multivariate linear regression and linear mixed-effects regression were employed to explore associations between these variables, while adjusting for sex, age, pubertal status and household income. Overall, food insecurity score was positively associated with depressive symptoms (β: 0·72, 95 % CI 0·52, 0·92), while BMI z-score was inversely associated (β: -0·31, 95 % CI 0·68, -0·03). We found an increase in strength of association between food insecurity and depressive symptoms over time (moderately food-insecure: β: 1·36 (95 % CI -0·10, 2·83) to 4·63 (95 % CI 2·17, 7·09); severely food-insecure: β: 1·89 (95 % CI 0·36, 3·41) to 3·30 (95 % CI 1·50, 5·10). Enhancing food access, improving nutritional status and providing mental health support are crucial components of adolescent health.

Although homophobic verbal victimization has been associated with negative mental health outcomes, little actually is known about its general prevalence and relationship to mental health among adolescents. In addition, the relationship of homophobic name-calling to mental health in gender non-conforming adolescents is not well understood. This study examined the relationship between homophobic verbal victimization and mental health in adolescents, accounting for their sexual orientation and level of gender non-conformity. Survey data was collected from 513 adolescents (ages 11-17) who attended eight schools in and around Amsterdam, the Netherlands; 56.7 % of the participating adolescents were female and 11.1 % reported same-sex attractions. As hypothesized, male adolescents and those with same-sex attractions were more likely to report victimization from homophobic name-calling than were their female and non-same-sex attracted peers. Contrary to expectations, homophobic name-calling was not independently associated with psychological distress after controlling for gender, sexual attractions, gender non-conformity, and other negative treatment by peers. The hypothesis that homophobic name-calling would be more strongly associated with psychological distress in male, same-sex attracted, and gender non-conforming adolescents was also not supported. The results suggest that same-sex attracted and gender non-conforming youth are particularly vulnerable to homophobic name-calling, in the Netherlands as in other contexts, but also that other forms of peer victimization may be more strongly related to mental health.

The health consequences of household air pollution caused by the use of solid cooking fuels are a significant priority in the worldwide endeavor to promote a shift towards clean energy. In comparison to other developing countries, the transition to clean cooking energy in Indonesia is the most significant. So far, no study has attempted to quantify the causal effects of clean cooking energy adoption on mental health in Indonesia. By using Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS) data and complementary estimation techniques, such as Propensity Score Matching and Difference-in-Difference (PSM-DID), this study attempts to close a research gap by analyzing the effects of the cooking energy transition on mental health in Indonesia. These techniques help to overcome biases resulting from selection mechanisms that might make it difficult to identify causal effects. The findings revealed that individuals who converted to clean cooking energy had lower Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CESD) scores and a 2.9% lower risk of having depressed symptoms. Women and those who live in urban were more affected than other groups, with a 3.5% and 5.2% decrease in the likelihood of depressive symptoms. These results imply that switching cooking energy sources can might improve individual's mental health. This study also addresses the potential channeling of the clean cooking energy transition and mental health, using physical health status and social participation.

Adolescent mental health in Indonesia is a serious issue, with a high prevalence of disorders such as depression and anxiety. Social, academic, and family-related stress, as well as the influence of social media, have been shown to affect adolescents’ well-being. In the context of Muslim adolescents, Islam has significant potential to support psychological well-being, although studies examining the relationship between the two in Indonesia remain limited. This study aims to identify factors influencing the mental health of Muslim adolescents, assess the role of Islam in shaping mental health, and provide recommendations for faith-based interventions. The method used is a systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines, with literature searches conducted through Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus. The search covered publications from 2020 to 2025, resulting in an initial 615 articles. Inclusion criteria included original articles written in Indonesian or English and open access, while exclusion criteria covered review articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and inactive DOIs. The findings indicate that social stress, academic demands, and family problems significantly contribute to the decline in Muslim adolescents’ mental health. Religious practices such as prayer, reading the Qur’an, and dhikr have been proven to support mental resilience and psychological well-being. Religious education and self-control also serve as important protective factors. It is recommended that programs to improve the mental health of Muslim adolescents involve collaboration between schools, families, and religious communities, provide safe spaces for sharing concerns, and utilize technology positively to reinforce religious values.

Introduction: Climate change is a global crisis with profound implications for mental health. Indonesia, as a highly vulnerable country, faces escalating environmental challenges that can significantly impact the psychological well-being of its population. This study investigates the psychological impacts of environmental distress related to climate change in Indonesia. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a representative sample of 1,500 Indonesian adults to assess the prevalence of mental health issues associated with climate change concerns and experiences. Qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 50 individuals from diverse backgrounds who reported experiencing significant environmental distress. Results: Quantitative analysis revealed a strong correlation between climate change concerns and various mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals directly affected by extreme weather events exhibited higher levels of psychological distress. Qualitative findings highlighted the complex interplay of factors contributing to environmental distress, including fear of future impacts, loss of livelihoods, displacement, and cultural disruption. Conclusion: Climate change poses a significant threat to mental health in Indonesia. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support services and community-based interventions to address the psychological impacts of environmental distress. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of climate change on mental health and develop culturally appropriate coping strategies.

Navigating LMICs challenges through educational and legal reforms to strengthen adolescent mental health in Indonesia.

Understanding traditional child rearing practices in the Sub-Saharan African region and the changes that have occurred over time are important, especially as this region is undergoing rapid transformation. Child rearing practices that promote mental health and ensure survival through the years as well as negative aspects that have detrimental effects also need to be identified. Concerns about the breakdown in traditional child rearing practices in Sub-Saharan Africa as well as the inadequate use of information on child rearing practices for programme creation have been expressed. Aim To identify temporal trends in child rearing practices in Sub-Saharan Africa and their implications for child mental health, using Nigeria as an example. Method Using the literature, temporal trends in child rearing practices and beliefs related to conception, birth, nutrition, weaning, attitudes toward children were examined. The implications of these observations for child mental health are highlighted. Results Cultures in sub-Saharan Africa value children highly. Healthy practices include confinement following delivery, breast feeding, carrying the child on the back and sleeping with the child. Taboos against pregnant women eating nutritious foods, delivery in traditional healers' homes, unhygienic care of the umbilical cord, food taboos, hierarchical or gender biased food distribution have a negative effect on child mental health. There are suggestions that child fostering and labour may also have negative consequences. Conclusion Through policy and aggressive health education, traditional child rearing practices in sub-Saharan Africa that promote child mental health should be encouraged and built into health programmes while negative practices should be actively discouraged. There is also an urgent need for further research. Keywords: Child Rearing, Nigeria; Mental Health Nigerian Journal of Psychiatry Vol. 6 (1) 2008: pp. 10-15

This commentary examines the influence of fathers in early childhood development in Africa and its implications for child and adolescent mental health. Historically overshadowed by maternal influence, research increasingly highlights the multifaceted impact of paternal involvement on children’s cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioural development. Fathers contribute uniquely to children’s mental growth through stimulating play and rich language interaction. Their emotional engagement fosters children’s self-esteem and resilience. Moreover, fathers influence social skills by modelling interactions and encouraging exploration. Paternal involvement is linked to improved behaviour regulation. Beyond direct interaction, factors such as paternal mental health, economic stability, and co-parenting dynamics also shape child outcomes. Despite the impact of engaged fatherhood on children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development, many fathers encounter barriers such as economic pressures, cultural norms, and migration. These challenges often hinder their ability to participate actively in their children’s lives, resulting in a disconnect that can affect family dynamics and child well-being. Addressing cultural and societal barriers to father involvement is crucial to optimise child development. To address these issues, the paper outlines several key policy implications aimed at promoting paternal involvement. This commentary serves as a foundation for further exploration of fathers’ complex and vital role in shaping children's lives.

One of the key tasks of adolescence is identity development. This includes ethnic identity, or the aspect of identity related to one's membership in an ethnic group. Ethnic identity development has implications for mental health. Those adolescents who achieve a secure sense of themselves as ethnic group members have higher self-esteem and tend to have better mental health overall. This paper reviews the pertinent literature that connects ethnic identity to mental health outcomes in African-American and Hispanic adolescents. The relevance to mental health nursing is also highlighted.

This study aims to identify factors associated with mental health literacy (mental health knowledge and attitudes towards mental health and help-seeking behaviours), depression and anxiety amongst adolescents, and test the hypothesised model by examining the interrelationships between these outcomes. Cross-sectional descriptive quantitative research. Using convenient sampling, 615 adolescents from four public schools completed online questionnaires measuring mental health literacy, depression, and anxiety. The data were analysed using Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and structural equation modelling (SEM). Individual factors (e.g., gender, physical health and past traumatic experiences), family factors (e.g., parental criticism and family support) and school/community factors (e.g., academic pressure and safety) were associated with mental health outcomes. SEM revealed an association between higher mental health knowledge and better attitudes towards mental health and help-seeking behaviours but did not show a significant association with depression and anxiety. Findings emphasise the need for holistic and culturally safe approaches to address adolescent mental health in Indonesia. Future research should focus on developing and evaluating tailored mental health interventions in Indonesia that address individual, family, school, and community factors. These interventions should target the interrelated aspects of mental health literacy, depression, and anxiety identified in this study. Key areas for intervention include enhancing self-esteem, promoting help-seeking behaviours, supporting spirituality, managing long-term conditions, improving sleep hygiene, encouraging physical activity, teaching stress management techniques, fostering diversity, managing trauma, and combating discrimination. A comprehensive approach to adolescent mental well-being should integrate parental involvement, peer support systems, community engagement initiatives, and mental health literacy education. This research informs future interventions such as school-based programs, family-oriented campaigns, and community initiatives to support adolescent mental health, potentially influencing policy decisions, and resource allocation in mental health services. STROBE guidelines. No direct patient or public contribution.

Confidential health care for adolescents: position paper of the Society for Adolescent Medicine

Part I: Stress and Trauma in Lifespan Perspective. Scott, Eliav, Relational Stress and Trauma in the Lives of Girls and Teens. Kendall-Tackett, Caught in the Middle: Stress and Trauma in the Lives of Young Adult Women. Kendall-Tackett, Trauma Associated with Perinatal Events: Birth Experience, Prematurity, and Childbearing Loss. Rysberg, Stress and Trauma in Middle-aged and Old Women. Part II: The Specter of Violence Against Women. Basile, Sexual Assault in the Lives of Girls and Women. Campbell, Kendall-Tackett, Intimate Partner Violence: Implications for Women's Physical and Mental Health. Bergeron, Abuse of Elderly Women in Family Relationships: Another Form of Violence Against Women. Dallam, Health Issues Associated with Violence Against Women. Bremner, Neuropsychiatric Changes Associated with Child Sexual Abuse. Part III: Stress and Trauma in the Lives of Women of Color, Women with Disabilities, and Lesbian Women. Banks, Ackerman, Yee, West, Stress and Trauma in the Lives of Women of Color. Mona, Cameron, Crawford, Stress and Trauma in the Lives of Women with Disabilities. Hyman, Heterosexism and Violence in the Lives of Lesbian Women: Implications for Mental Health.

Mastery involves a sense of having control over one's surroundings and an ability to accomplish meaningful goals and determine important meaningful outcomes across situations. Mastery is a dynamic, learned resource that has implications for mental health. Although mastery is known to be influenced by exposure to family members (i.e., parental socialization, parenting styles; provided opportunities for autonomy and choice) there remain few long-term considerations of intergenerational transmission of mastery within families and the enduring implications for offspring's mental health and adjustment. Using a nationally representative sample from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, the current study addresses the longitudinal effects of mothers' early sense of mastery on adolescent and adult offspring's mastery and well-being. In considering mothers' reports between 1987 and 1992 and offspring's ongoing reports between 1994 and 2012; this study addressed questions about direct, moderated, and mediated mother effects on longitudinal offspring outcomes. Mother mastery and mother self-esteem predicted offspring's respective reports, but only mother mastery predicted offspring depressive symptoms. Effects of mother mastery, but not mother self-esteem, were moderated by offspring age. Older offspring of high mastery mothers showed the largest benefits for reported mastery. Older offspring of low mastery mothers reported the greatest concerns with depressive symptoms. Last, effects of mother mastery on offspring depressive symptoms were mediated by offspring mastery and self-esteem. We discuss the fit of these findings with existing theories and empirical work on intergenerational transmission. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).

Brain activity is characterized by rhythmic oscillations that regulate key cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functions. These rhythms, categorized into delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma waves, represent a critical evolutionary mechanism for survival, allowing early humans to adapt to dangerous and unpredictable environments. However, in modern times, alterations in these rhythms, whether excessive or deficient, can lead to significant dysfunctions, particularly in women, where hormonal and neurobiological factors significantly influence brainwave production. This article explores the evolutionary origins of brain rhythm alterations, gender differences in brainwave production, and their implications for women's behavior and mental health. A multidisciplinary approach to addressing these imbalances is discussed, including bio- neurofeedback techniques, the use of dietary supplements (magnesium, omega-3, L-theanine, B vitamins, and zinc), and lifestyle modifications. The proposed strategies aim not only to restore balance to brain rhythms but also to introduce an innovative model of personalized intervention tailored to women's specific needs. This approach addresses a gap in many neurocognitive studies, which often overlook gender variables as a central element offering practical tools to improve emotional and cognitive well-being and prevent chronic conditions such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders [1].

The rising pace of urbanization has led to an unprecedented demand for buildings and other construction activities. The modern urban environment is often characterized by its concrete buildings, tall skyscrapers and uniformity in physical features and appearance. It has symbolized the almost violent expunge of the natural world not only from our physical environment, but also our psyche. Biophilic design as a trend incorporates the use of natural or nature-inspired systems and processes in the design of the built environment, thereby initiating an integration or re-integration of nature into our daily lives. The present paper aims to review the concept of biophilic design, its attributes and theoretical perspectives as well as its implications for human mental health. The probable challenges of its implementation in the Indian context have also been discussed. The review follows a narrative approach, and an effort was made to review researches conducted in the last fifteen years. Secondary data were taken from PubMed, Google Scholar and JSTORE using relevant keywords. The concept of biophilic design is gradually gaining momentum as part of the rising environmental consciousness. While it has found a footing in the realm of architecture, social sciences are yet to take it up in any considerable manner. The review found enough scientific evidence supporting positive effects of biophilic design architecture on human mental health. However, the extent and duration of these positive effects is not clear. In addition, the interaction of biophilic design elements with individual characteristics and contextual factors such as culture and class requires more exploration. In India, even though biophilic design practice are available, there is a lack of academic literature exploring the same. Further multidisciplinary research is required in order to establish biophilic design as a viable design alternative. In current times, it has become pertinent to explore alternatives that promote environmental protection and rejuvenation of “human–nature” relationship, biophilic design offers one such opportunity.KeywordsBiophiliaBiophilic designHuman healthNature and well-being