Unequal Access to Mental Health Services

The people of Indonesia still do not have adequate access to mental health services, despite the rising risk of mental illnesses during the pandemic.

KOMPAS/RIZA FATHONI

A number of patients with mental disorders gathered after undergoing a PCR swab test at the Bina Insan Bangun Daya 2 Social Institution, Cipayung, East Jakarta, Monday (23/8/2021).

JAKARTA, KOMPAS – The increased risk of mental disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic has also increased the demand for mental health services. Thus, public access to mental health services is expected to be easy, affordable and within reach.

A psychiatrist from Marzoeki Mahdi Hospital in Bogor, who is also a member of the Indonesian Psychiatrists Association (PDSKJI), Lahargo Kembaren, said that there had been an increase in various mental health issues during the pandemic, ranging from sleep disorders and anxiety to depression and even schizophrenia.