Voices From the East: Involving Young People in Developing Health Solutions

By: Elisabeth Uru Ndaya, S.Pd.          

The National Forum of Indonesian Teenagers and Young People, themed “Co-Create for Health” (Jakarta, February 13–14, 2026), was an initiative of ChildFund International in Indonesia to co-design health solutions with community partners. The author attended as a representative of Sumba Integrated Development (SID), a ChildFund partner, representing the East Sumba Youth Forum. This event brought together teenagers and young people from various regions of Indonesia to discuss adolescent health issues, with a particular focus on mental health.

Several behavioral patterns observed among adolescents in Indonesia—such as rarely eating breakfast, high consumption of sugary drinks, irregular night shifts, late bedtime habits, and mental health challenges—deserve serious attention. Recent data show that the national prevalence of depression in 2023 was 1.4%, with the highest rate found in the 15–24 age group at around 2%. Furthermore, a 2025 report highlighted that 61% of young people with depression had considered suicide. The World Health Organization also noted that suicide is now the third leading cause of death globally among those aged 15–29. These findings reveal the high levels of sadness experienced by adolescents and demonstrate a close link to life pressures, emotional stress, and unhealthy daily habits.

These facts highlight the importance of mental health interventions that actively engage young people’s voices to ensure solutions are both relevant and sustainable. From the very first day, participants not only listened to the material but also took part in discussions and critical thinking processes. The forum revealed that many adolescents are not actually feeling well. Their problems often remain hidden and invisible, with numerous pressures such as stress from school assignments, not being heard at home, and even experiences of bullying.

Mental health issues in East Sumba remain under-recognized and are often misunderstood. Through the forum, participants learned that mental health is just as important as physical health, and that every adolescent deserves a safe space to share their stories. During the design thinking session, they were divided into small groups and asked to empathize before seeking solutions. They began by listening to each other’s stories and then worked to identify the root causes. It became clear that stress and depression stem from many factors, including lack of support, stigma, and limited access to services. From this process, they concluded that solutions cannot be instantaneous; instead, participants collaboratively developed realistic approaches that could be implemented in their respective regions.

Mental health issues should not be considered taboo and must be discussed more openly. Public campaigns and youth forums can raise awareness through a more inclusive and relevant approach. Digital-based mental health platforms also provide opportunities for adolescents and young people to access counseling anonymously and more easily. The author returned not only with valuable experience but also with a responsibility to ensure that more youth in East Sumba recognize the importance of maintaining mental health and have the courage to seek help. Let us continue to care for both our physical and mental health!***