Representation of Gen Z's Mental Health in the Lyrics of 'Maybe We'll Arrive Tomorrow' by Hindia

Abstract

Mental health among Generation Z has become an important issue amid achievement pressure, uncertainty about the future, comparison culture, and intensive use of digital media. This study examines how life struggles and Generation Z mental health are represented in the lyrics of Hindia’s Besok Mungkin Kita Sampai. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed using Teun A. van Dijk’s Critical Discourse Analysis, covering text structure, social cognition, and social context. The primary data consisted of the song lyrics, while secondary data were drawn from books, journal articles, previous studies, relevant documentation, and published statements by the songwriter. Data were collected through documentation, literature review, and close listening and note-taking, then purposively analyzed at the level of words, phrases, sentences, and lyrical stanzas related to mental health. The findings show that the text structure constructs themes of an uncertain life journey, social pressure surrounding achievement, identity exploration, and acceptance that individuals move through life at different paces. At the level of social cognition, Hindia demonstrates awareness of feeling left behind, pressures related to education, employment, marriage, personal relationships, and the need to pause. Within the social context, three dominant representations emerge: overthinking, anxiety about the future, and emotional exhaustion, all reinforced by competition and social comparison. The song therefore functions as a medium of reflection and emotional support while offering a counter-discourse to uniform standards of success.