In a demanding academic environment where research and scholarly intensity are the norm, the Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) is taking action on student well-being. The university has initiated a strategic, step-by-step approach to mental health support, spearheaded by the UIII Counseling and Mental Health Services (CMHS).

Dr. Lukman Nul Hakim, the convener of these sessions, detailed the robust philosophy guiding CMHS. He stated that the services are structured around a promotive, preventive, curative, and rehabilitative framework. This holistic model ensures that the university addresses mental health across the entire spectrum, from promoting general wellness to offering targeted care and support for recovery.

The necessity for such a structured program is keenly felt by the students themselves, especially those engaged in postgraduate research. Clara Clarissa, MA in Islamic Studies Student, said that this event is extremely important at UIII. She believes that students experience a significant amount of stress from their research, so it would be beneficial to understand how they manage stress.

“We can become more optimal in writing, because maybe for master’s students, writing is something new… but because the focus is more intense, the stress is definitely much higher, so knowing our mental health is very helpful,” she said.

Sainah Janney, a M.A. in Political Science student, aligns with Clara. He feels that a lot of stress is happening right now due to the tasks and end-of-semester examinations. “It is important so that we understand what is stressed,” he said.

He noted that this event is not just about individual coping, it is also empowering students to support their peers and fostering a culture of mutual care. From the knowledge he gained, he thinks that it will help his peers around him.

“It does help me because I have a friend who always doesn’t have that confidence in himself, who will always be complaining that people are doing, and he’s not doing well after graduation. So I am always advising him, trying to convince him. […] So this will help me to definitely achieve greater to all,” he said.

By providing resources that equip students to understand, regulate, and cope with academic and personal stressors, UIII’s CMHS is laying the groundwork for a more resilient, successful, and mentally healthy student community, affirming that student well-being is fundamental to academic achievement.

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The counseling services of CMHS are located at the Faculty of Education in the Faculty A compound (first and third floors). They are available during working hours, and students, staff, and faculty members can access them by booking an appointment through the CMHS application.

Seeking help is an act of courage, not a sign of weakness. So never hesitate to reach out to us—we are here to support you.
Dr. Lukman Nul Hakim