The North Sumatra Provincial Health Agency (Dinkes Sumut) is expanding the scope of its Free Health Check (CKG) program to include early detection of mental health indications. This proactive step comes in response to the high number of residents experiencing symptoms of anxiety and stress across various age groups.
Based on screening data from approximately 2.8 million residents, officials found significant evidence of People with Mental Health Issues (ODMK) in the early stages. Head of Public Health at Dinkes Sumut, Hery Valona Bonatua Ambarita, emphasized that anxiety and stress are situational and manageable if addressed early, preventing them from developing into more severe mental disorders.
Data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health shows that approximately 1.2 percent of the Indonesian population has the potential for anxiety disorders. Statistically, this phenomenon indicates that out of ten people, at least one to two show indications of ODMK. Therefore, education and psychological therapy serve as essential pillars in strengthening community mental resilience.
Field findings reveal distinct stress triggers across age groups. Teenagers are primarily affected by high academic workloads or school assignments, while adults generally experience mental pressure due to economic factors, ranging from basic living costs to children's education expenses. In response, the North Sumatra Provincial Government is implementing a comprehensive approach, from early detection to providing specialist services for individuals requiring intensive therapy.
To date, Dinkes Sumut has screened more than 13,000 residents out of a target of 22,000 people by the end of the year. Beyond early detection, the agency remains committed to its restraint-free (pasung-free) initiative, noting that 186 People with Severe Mental Disorders (ODGJ) across 33 regencies/cities have received proper medical treatment.
