Chalifah Fatihah
WELLNEST FESTIVAL Vol. 2, JAKARTA – Overthinking, a state often demonized as a detrimental habit, is in fact a normal human response that can even serve as a catalyst for personal growth, according to Dr. Lula Kamal, a member of the Supervisory Board of BPJS Kesehatan, Indonesia’s national health insurance program. Speaking at the Wellnest Festival Vol. 2 held at the South Quarter Dome in Cilandak, South Jakarta, on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, Dr. Kamal clarified that the concern should not be with the act of overthinking itself, but rather with its intensity and its impact on daily life and functioning.
The festival, which aims to promote well-being and mental health awareness, featured a series of talks and workshops designed to equip attendees with knowledge and tools for navigating the complexities of modern life. Dr. Kamal’s session, titled "Overthinking Normal or Not? Doctors Weigh In," drew a significant crowd, reflecting the widespread societal concern and personal experience with this pervasive cognitive pattern.
Dr. Kamal emphasized that stress and worry are inherent human responses. Far from being solely negative, these emotions can act as powerful motivators, pushing individuals to prepare and perform at a higher level. She introduced the concept of two distinct types of stress as understood in psychology: eustress and distress.
"Did you know that stress has two forms, eustress and distress? But actually, we need stress," Dr. Kamal stated during the engaging talk show segment.
Eustress, she explained, is the positive form of stress. It is characterized by feelings of excitement, anticipation, and motivation, and it helps individuals to focus and engage more effectively when facing challenges. This type of stress can be instrumental in achieving goals, enhancing performance, and fostering resilience. For instance, the anxiety a student feels before a major examination can be a form of eustress, prompting diligent study and thorough preparation.
Conversely, distress is the negative form of stress. It is associated with feelings of anxiety, fear, and overwhelm, and it can impair cognitive function, hinder productivity, and negatively impact physical and mental health. When distress takes hold, individuals may find themselves paralyzed, unable to act or think clearly.
To illustrate the difference, Dr. Kamal used the relatable example of facing an examination. "Imagine you have an exam. If you don’t feel any stress, you might just relax and not study at all," she posited. This highlights how a certain level of apprehension (eustress) can be beneficial for academic success.
She further shared a personal anecdote from her experience as a public speaker. "When I’m about to host an event, I have to think, ‘Ah, I need to prepare.’ Because I’m afraid of failing as an MC. When I’m afraid of failing, it means there’s stress there. As long as that stress becomes eustress, motivating us to do better, it’s quite okay," she recounted. This personal narrative underscored the idea that mild to moderate worry, when channeled constructively, can lead to better preparation and execution.
The core message from Dr. Kamal’s presentation was that the feeling of worry, when it drives individuals to learn, practice, or prepare, is not something to be eradicated. It is a signal that can be harnessed for positive outcomes.
The Slippery Slope to Distress
The critical juncture, Dr. Kamal warned, is when worry transforms from a motivator into a paralyzing force. "But if it’s distress, because of stress, you can’t do anything. You can’t even speak into the microphone without everything falling apart. That’s when you know it’s distress," she elaborated.
This transition from productive concern to debilitating anxiety is what distinguishes healthy coping from maladaptive responses. Overthinking, in its mild and manageable form, falls into the realm of normal cognitive activity. However, when the volume of thoughts becomes overwhelming, repetitive, and intrusive, leading to a state of distress, it signals a need for attention and intervention.
"Stress is needed. A little bit of overthinking is okay. But not too much. It’s okay to be normal, but just a little bit," she concluded, emphasizing the importance of moderation and balance.
The Key to Well-being: Achieving Equilibrium
Dr. Kamal reiterated that worry should not be viewed as an enemy to be vanquished entirely. Instead, a measured amount of concern can serve as a crucial alert system, prompting individuals to be more prepared and adaptable in various life situations. This perspective reframes worry not as a weakness, but as a potential strength when managed effectively.
The Wellnest Festival, now in its second iteration, has been a platform for prominent figures in health and wellness to share insights and engage with the public. The inaugural Wellnest Festival, held in 2025, focused on a broader range of mental health topics, including stress management, mindfulness, and the impact of social media on well-being. This year’s theme, "Building Resilience in a Complex World," sought to address the increasing pressures and uncertainties of contemporary life. The festival’s programming consistently aims to destigmatize mental health discussions and provide accessible information.
The implications of Dr. Kamal’s remarks extend beyond individual understanding. BPJS Kesehatan, as the administrator of Indonesia’s universal healthcare system, plays a pivotal role in ensuring access to mental health services. The organization has been progressively expanding its coverage to include psychological services, recognizing the growing need. This includes coverage for consultations with psychologists and psychiatrists, often accessible through primary healthcare facilities like community health centers (Puskesmas) and increasingly through telehealth platforms.
The expansion of mental health services under BPJS Kesehatan is a significant development, driven by increasing awareness of mental health issues and their societal impact. Data from the Ministry of Health indicates a rise in reported cases of anxiety and depression among various age groups in recent years, prompting a proactive approach from the government and healthcare providers. The inclusion of psychological consultations within the national health insurance framework aims to reduce financial barriers and encourage early intervention.
The ability to consult with psychologists at Puskesmas, as well as through online platforms, represents a strategic effort to democratize access to mental healthcare. This decentralized approach ensures that individuals in different geographic locations and with varying levels of mobility can seek support. The Wellnest Festival serves as an ideal venue to disseminate this information and encourage citizens to utilize these available resources.
The distinction between eustress and distress, as articulated by Dr. Kamal, is crucial for self-awareness. Recognizing the early signs of distress—such as persistent rumination, difficulty concentrating, disrupted sleep patterns, or changes in appetite—is the first step toward seeking help. When these thoughts begin to impede one’s ability to work, study, or engage in daily activities, it is a clear indication that the situation warrants attention.
In such instances, seeking professional guidance from a mental health expert becomes paramount. This could involve consulting with a psychologist, psychiatrist, or counselor who can provide tailored strategies for managing overwhelming thoughts and developing healthier coping mechanisms. The availability of these services through BPJS Kesehatan offers a vital safety net for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
The broader impact of fostering a society that understands and addresses overthinking constructively is profound. It contributes to a reduction in the stigma surrounding mental health, encourages open conversations, and promotes a culture of seeking help when needed. By equipping individuals with the knowledge that some level of cognitive engagement is normal, while simultaneously providing pathways to address distress, events like the Wellnest Festival play a crucial role in building a more resilient and mentally healthy population.
The ongoing efforts by BPJS Kesehatan to integrate mental health services into the national healthcare system are a testament to the evolving understanding of well-being. As societal pressures continue to mount, the ability to navigate complex emotional and cognitive landscapes becomes increasingly important. Dr. Lula Kamal’s insights at the Wellnest Festival serve as a timely reminder that while overthinking can be a sign of a concerned and engaged mind, vigilance against its descent into debilitating distress is essential for overall health and happiness. The festival, therefore, not only educates but also empowers individuals to take proactive steps towards their mental well-being, supported by accessible healthcare provisions.
