Mataram, University of Mataram – The Academic Support Unit for Counseling and Career Development (UPA BKPK) of the University of Mataram (Unram), in collaboration with the Indonesian Psychological Association (HIMPSI) West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Region, held a Mental Health Talk Show titled “Speak Up, Reach Out” at the Unram Dome Building on Thursday, November 6.

This event was part of the 63rd Anniversary celebration of Unram and also served as a pre-event for the HIMPSI NTB Regional Conference. It aimed to raise awareness and understanding about the importance of maintaining mental health among students and the general public, while encouraging individuals to speak up and seek professional help when facing psychological challenges.

The talk show was attended by nearly 490 participants, consisting of Unram students and members of the public from various backgrounds. The event was officially opened by the Vice Rector for Student and Alumni Affairs (WR III), Dr. Sujita, S.T., M.T., followed by remarks from the Head of UPA BKPK, apt. Yoga Dwi Saputra, S.Farm., M.Pharm.Sci., and the Chairperson of HIMPSI NTB Region, Lalu Yulhaidir, M.Psi., Psychologist.

In his speech, Dr. Sujita emphasized the importance of balancing academic abilities with the development of soft skills among students.

“Students should not only excel academically but also develop social and emotional skills, as well as the ability to manage stress. Good mental health is the foundation for strong soft skills and a vital asset in facing professional life and social interactions,” he stated.

Meanwhile, apt. Yoga Dwi Saputra, S.Farm., M.Pharm.Sci., expressed that the event was designed to provide a safe and supportive space for all participants.

“Through this event, UPA BKPK Unram and HIMPSI NTB aim to create a safe space — a place where we can learn, share, and strengthen one another. We want to emphasize that mental health is not a taboo topic, but a real and essential need for everyone,” he said.

The talk show featured three professional speakers who discussed various aspects of mental health:

1. Ade Lativa Fitri (Senyum Puan) – “The Role of Communities as Safe Spaces (Social Support)”

2. Irwan Rosadi, M.Psi., Psychologist (HIMPSI NTB) – “Adolescent Mental Health Literacy”

3. dr. Lalu Yogi Prasetio Imam, Sp.KJ – “The Importance of Mental Health and Encouraging Professional Help-Seeking Behavior”

Through this event, Unram and HIMPSI NTB strengthened the synergy between educational institutions and professional organizations in supporting the psychological well-being of the academic community and the broader public.

The event is expected to serve as a concrete step toward building a more open, caring, and supportive environment for mental health awareness.