NERS NEWS – Undergraduate Nursing students from Universitas Airlangga (Unair) conducted a Group Activity Therapy (TAK) session for patients experiencing low self-esteem. The activity took place in the Alamanda Ward of Menur Psychiatric Hospital (RSJ Menur) Surabaya in February 2026. This initiative aimed to enhance patients’ ability to recognize and develop their inner potential through a group-based therapeutic approach.
The Group Activity Therapy (TAK) consisted of two main sessions: identifying positive personal attributes and practicing positive skills. During the sessions, patients were encouraged to write down unpleasant experiences, identify their personal strengths, and practice positive abilities through discussions, games, and demonstrations. This method is specifically designed to help patients build self-confidence and improve their social skills.
The program was carried out by nursing students from the 2023 Cohort, Alamanda 2 Sub-Group, under the supervision of academic and clinical instructors at RSJ Menur. The participants included patients with self-concept disturbances—specifically low self-esteem—who participated in structured therapy in the Alamanda Ward on February 13, 2026.
This initiative was driven by the high prevalence of low self-esteem among psychiatric patients, which can hinder the recovery process and social interaction. Through TAK, patients are expected to recognize their potential, boost their self-confidence, and reintegrate into their social environments. This intervention is a vital component of holistic psychiatric nursing care.
One of the organizers noted that group therapy provides an opportunity for patients to support one another and learn together in a safe and therapeutic atmosphere.
This activity supports the achievement of the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by promoting mental health recovery.
- SDG 4: Quality Education, through structured health and skill-based learning.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through collaboration between educational institutions and specialized healthcare facilities.
Through this Group Activity Therapy, it is hoped that patients can gradually improve their self-esteem and social skills. Furthermore, this activity represents a meaningful contribution by nursing students toward enhancing the quality of mental health services and supporting optimal patient recovery.
Author: Jihan Keisha Aliya (Group C7, A4 2023)
Editor: Farah Dina Azizatul Aulia (Airlangga Nursing Journalist)
