Kelakar Nusantara Opens Honest Anxiety Conversations

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta: Kelakar Nusantara explored mental health through the theme “Anxiety: Suppressed, Discussed, or Laughed At” at the Overseas Broadcast Support Auditorium of Radio Republik Indonesia on Friday, Februar 2026). The program, organized by RRI Pro 3, blended humor with reflection to unpack emotional struggles. It encouraged audiences to see anxiety as part of shared human experience.

The session invited participants to openly reflect on how anxiety appears in daily life. Financial worries, uncertainty, and social comparison often trigger stress quietly. These feelings may seem normal but can grow overwhelming if ignored.

RRI Pro 3 designed the event to be interactive and inclusive. Audiences were encouraged to share their personal stories. A question and answer segment allowed participants to discuss mental health directly.

Speakers noted that anxiety is not always visible but often deeply felt. Everyday habits like overthinking or emotional eating may signal deeper strain. Social media comparisons can also intensify internal pressure.

During the discussion, Executive Director of the Indonesian Health Development Center, Dr. Ray Wagiu Basrowi explained how emotional wellbeing connects closely with biological processes. Mental health, he noted, is deeply linked to hormones. Suppressed anxiety can silently disrupt the body from within.

“The danger is this, mental health and everything related to the mind is closely connected to hormones. When we suppress it, it slowly damages us internally. Scientifically, suppressed stress and anxiety can disrupt the body’s hormonal feedback mechanisms,” he said.

He explained that stress triggers cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. In balanced amounts, cortisol supports alertness and motivation. However, excessive cortisol may disturb other hormonal systems.

High cortisol levels can suppress dopamine and serotonin, which support emotional stability. This imbalance affects sleep, mood, and daily functioning. Over time, unresolved stress weakens resilience.

He added that one of the most effective ways to release emotional pressure is by talking to someone tl healing.

“Having peer support also matters. A friend who listens, not judges. Because sometimes, the first step toward healing is simply having the courage to speak up,” he said.