(Discussion Series batch #2, on Tuesday, April 30, 2021 with the speaker, Professor of Psychology of Religion at Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University, Prof. Dr. Sekar Ayu Aryani, M.Ag.)

Talking about the current era, of course there have been many destructions that have befallen humanity. This, in turn, will affect the pattern of life so that it will have an effect on mental health. It is very important to know and understand this, because it is an effort in finding and living human happiness. Imagine, if humans are not happy in their lives, then how do you answer the question, "What is the meaning of life? What is the use of all the age and wealth you have? Is it not a waste if you live but have no spirit? So, what is your life really for and what can you get?"

In Prof. Sekar Aryani's PPT, it is explained that mental health is a condition that is free from all forms of symptoms of mental disorders. mentally healthy individuals can function normally in running life. Especially when adjusting to face all the problems that will be faced throughout life by using stress management skills.

Meanwhile, according to WHO, mental health is a condition of individual well-being in the form of the ability to manage stress, live a reasonable life, work productively, and play an active role in their community. The law of our country, also defines mental health, when it is stated in Law No. 3 of 1966.

"Mental health is a condition that allows the optimal physical, intellectual and emotional development of a person and that development goes in harmony with other people's circumstances."

In some observations from psychologists, there are several factors that affect the condition of human mental health. These include heredity, past trauma, sexual or physical abuse, unhealthy lifestyles, and injuries to the brain.

At least, diseases caused by mental health disorders are divided into two types. First, psychosis. This is a mental condition that makes it difficult for the sufferer to distinguish reality, such as bipolar disorder, severe depression, symptoms of delusion or anxiety, and Schizophrenia. Second, non-psychosis. This means that the patient experiences emotional disturbances or has a mindset that is not in accordance with applicable laws or norms. This disease is usually closely related to stress and trauma. Examples include anti-social behavior, anxiety disorders, phobias, panic, and the like.

Some of the ways to maintain mental health include respecting oneself, always seeing the positive side of a problem, treating oneself as one would treat a loved one, finding the best way for oneself to manage stress, being grateful for everything one has, adopting a healthy lifestyle, developing one's potential, maintaining good relationships with others, doing things that make one happy, and stopping being too perfectionistic.

So, how to find mental health solutions in religion?

One of the most effective ways to find mental health solutions in religion is with a Healty Minded perspective. This is a mindset that sees religion with optimism, hope and enthusiasm, and joy. This will make religious adherents have the spirit and direction of their goals. Ultimately, religious adherents will find their identity, direction, grip, and meaning of life. In addition, religious adherents must be careful when interpreting their sacred texts. If this is not considered, it will get an impression that can actually cause mental health problems. This term in the Psychology of Religion is often called Sick Soul. That is the impression obtained by religious adherents, as if the God they worship is an angry God, a God who always threatens. Unconsciously, this will cause a person to be haunted by excessive fear of sin, pessimistic, gloomy, or even too reflective remembering the dark past.

By practicing the teachings of religion correctly, religious adherents can avoid these mental health disorders. Many of its teachings intersect directly with the psychological dimension. This is directly related to stress management. Automatically, adherents who truly practice the teachings of religion kaffah, will reach the peak point of happiness. And that is when he can be free from the shadows of mental health disorders or diseases.