Author: Fidela Ayu Syafira, Dian Nuswantoro University (UDINUS), Semarang/Internship at the BKPK Secretariat
Ever felt sad all day, then opened TikTok and suddenly felt recounts with content about depression or other mental disorders? If so, you may be experiencing the phenomenon self-diagnosis, namely the tendency to self-diagnose without professional help. This phenomenon is now becoming an increasingly discussed topic, especially among young people.
Fenomena Self Diagnosis This is not just an ordinary trend. According to research conducted by Sukmawati and team (2023), the term Self Diagnosis This refers to the behavior of being curious about the symptoms of a disease, then comparing them to available references without confirmation from a professional. Easy access to information in the digital age makes this process seem quick and convenient, but it isn't always accurate.
Despite the growing awareness of mental health, data suggests risks that warrant attention. The 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) report indicates that young women are the most vulnerable group to depression. The prevalence reached 2,8 percent, compared to only 1,1 percent for men. This means that women are almost twice as likely to experience depression.
This vulnerability is influenced by a combination of biological and social factors. Hormonal changes after puberty make girls more emotionally sensitive. Furthermore, social pressures such as role demands, environmental expectations, and relationship dynamics also contribute to the mental burden experienced from a young age.
As part of Generation Z, who are deeply connected to technology, access to information is indeed increasingly easy. However, this convenience also has a downside. Many young people, especially women, use social media as a primary resource for understanding their mental state, then quickly draw their own conclusions based on content they deem inappropriate. relatable.
This phenomenon is further amplified by the abundance of information available on the internet. This aligns with research by Anindita et al. (2023) on the diagnosis of mental disorders, which showed that easy access to information without proper filtering can lead to increased practices. self-diagnosis and mistakes in understanding mental health conditions.
here self-diagnosis become a problem. Feelings of sadness, tiredness, or overthinking Even those within normal limits are often immediately dismissed as depression. However, medically, depression meets specific criteria, such as symptoms lasting most of the day for at least two weeks and impacting daily activities. Without adequate understanding, self-labeling can actually lead to additional anxiety.
Mental health awareness is certainly a positive step. However, it's important to understand that self-awareness does not replace the role of a professional. Without proper understanding, self-diagnosis In fact, it risks making someone trapped in a label that does not necessarily match the actual condition.
To avoid getting caught up in this phenomenon, there are several steps you can take. First, be more critical in filtering information, especially from social media, which doesn't always have a strong scientific basis. Second, don't rush to conclusions just because you feel like it. recounts with some content.
Third, understand that emotions such as sadness, fatigue, or anxiety are normal and do not necessarily indicate a mental disorder. Fourth, limit consumption of content that triggers anxiety. overthinking or worsen anxiety. Fifth, seek professional help if the condition persists and begins to interfere with daily activities.
With these steps, self-awareness It can function as it should, namely as a gateway to self-understanding, not as a basis for labeling yourself. Ultimately, maintaining mental health isn't just about recognizing what you're feeling, but also ensuring it's handled appropriately.
