RELEVANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH IN CHARACTER FORMATION AND STUDENT COMPETENCE

Abstract

Mental health is not only related to the absence of mental disorders, but also includes emotional well- being, the ability to manage stress, establish positive social relationships, and be able to adapt to the pressures of life. Currently, students face various demands and challenges in their lives. Starting from demands in the family, demands at school, challenges in relationships, and challenges in living in society. Value demands from parents, challenges and dynamics of peer relationships, and community norms are factors that influence students' mental health. Therefore, mental health can also affect students' character and competence. This study aims to examine in depth the relevance between mental health and character formation and improving academic competence. Data were collected from various scientific references such as books, journals, and other documents that discuss related topics. The analysis techniques used are the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions or verification. The results of the study show that students with good mental health tend to be able to manage emotions, think critically, and demonstrate behavior that is in line with moral values such as responsibility, empathy, and discipline. This supports optimal academic achievement and the formation of a complete character. On the other hand, students who experience mental disorders such as stress or anxiety show decreased motivation, learning difficulties, and deviant behavior. Therefore, synergy is needed between schools, teachers, parents, and the community in creating a learning environment that supports mental health. This study concludes that the success of education is not only assessed from the cognitive aspect, but also the mental and emotional readiness of students. Ideal education is education that balances the intellectual, emotional, and spiritual development of students.