Generation Z is now at the forefront of nation-building. However, growing up in a fast-paced digital era exposes them to complex psychological pressures. Uncontrolled social media use often triggers anxiety, depression, and a decline in self-confidence due to social comparison phenomena.
The scale of this issue is serious. The Indonesia National Adolescent Mental Health Survey (I-NAMHS) revealed that around 34.9 percent of adolescents in the country experienced mental health disorders in the past year. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) also notes that at least one in seven adolescents faces similar challenges, making it a crucial issue that requires systematic handling.
Unfortunately, amidst this urgency, society still often labels mental disorders as the result of a lack of faith or worship. This unilateral judgment often makes victims feel guilty and reluctant to seek professional help. In fact, mental health is influenced by many factors, ranging from biological aspects to socio-environmental pressures.
In this context, science and religion should not be opposed. The Islamic perspective teaches the importance of maintaining mental health (hifz al-nafs) as part of the maqashid shariah. Seeking consultation with a psychologist or psychiatrist is a form of real effort (ikhtiar) that is highly recommended, accompanying spiritual approaches such as dhikr (remembrance of God) to calm the soul.
A harmonious synergy between science and faith is expected to produce a young generation that is not only emotionally and intellectually resilient, but also spiritually strong. Addressing this issue requires active involvement from families, educational institutions, to the government to create a supportive ecosystem free from stigma.
