Mental Health of Adolescents in Indonesia : Barriers, Risk Factors, and Intervention Strategies : A Literature Review

Abstract

WHO (2022) reported a 25% increase in global depression prevalence, with adolescents among the most affected groups. In Indonesia, one in seven adolescents experiences a mental disorder, and suicide ranks as the third leading cause of death among individuals aged 15–29 years. National surveys in 2018 and 2023 confirmed rising depression rates, compounded by stigma and limited access to mental health services. I-NAMHS 2022 reported around 15.5 million adolescents (34.9%) experiencing at least one mental health problem. This study synthesizes risk factors, barriers, and intervention strategies for adolescent mental health in Indonesia. Fifteen peer-reviewed articles (2020–2025) were retrieved from Google Scholar, and Science Direct, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Inclusion criteria included quantitative and qualitative studies, open-access full-text availability, publications in English or Indonesian, and focus on adolescent populations. Results identified three main themes: risk factors, including adverse family environments, problematic parenting, bullying, digital overuse, academic stress, and socioeconomic inequality; barriers, such as stigma, rural service gaps, low literacy, and dual effects of digitalization; and effective interventions, including school-based psychoeducation, digital platforms, and integrated community approaches. Evidence underscores the urgent need for multisectoral collaboration to address barriers, expand infrastructure, and reduce stigma through culturally appropriate adolescent mental health strategies.