Jakarta (VNA) – Indonesia’s 2025–2026 Free Health Check (CKG) programme has found indications of mental health problems, mainly anxiety and depression, in nearly 10% of about 7 million children screened, a figure considered significant.
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said on March 9 that 4.4%, or around 338,000 children, showed symptoms of anxiety disorders, while 4.8%, or about 363,000, showed signs of depression, indicating that mental health issues among children are significant and require serious attention.
According to the minister, psychological problems among children could lead to suicidal behaviour if not addressed in time. Data from the Global School-Based Student Health Survey show that the proportion of children who have attempted suicide increased from 3.9% in 2015 to 10.7% in 2023.
Sadikin explained that children’s mental health problems are influenced not only by individual factors but also by family, friendship and school environments. He emphasised the need to improve parenting approaches and learning environments, while promoting life skills and psychological first-aid programmes to help children respond effectively to stress.
Following the findings, the Indonesian Ministry of Health plans to expand CKG screening to around 25 million children in the coming period.
Meanwhile, Director General of Primary and Community Health Maria Endang Sumiwi said cases showing signs of psychological disorders would be followed up and monitored by community health centres (Puskesmas).
The Indonesian government is also accelerating efforts to increase the number of clinical psychologists at these centres, which currently have about 203 specialists. Rapid intervention will also be provided through the online mental health crisis support service Healing119.id.
In the education sector, the ministry is encouraging the involvement of guidance and counselling teachers and homeroom teachers in supporting students showing signs of psychological distress.
Early detection efforts have also been strengthened through the signing of a joint decree on child mental health by nine ministries and agencies on March 5, aiming to build an integrated management system covering prevention, treatment and recovery.
The participating agencies include the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, the Ministry of Communication and Digital, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the Ministry of Population and Family Development, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Social Affairs, and the National Police./.
