Many Children Experience Anxiety and Depression, Psychologists Urge Parents to Set Aside Special Time
Health screening conducted by the Health Ministry shows that hundreds of thousands of children in Indonesia experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The finding was obtained after approximately 7 million children underwent examinations through the Free Health Check (CKG) programme during the 2025–2026 period.
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated that 4.4 per cent, or approximately 338,000 children, showed symptoms of anxiety disorder.
Given this situation, psychologists believe parents play an important role in maintaining their children’s mental health. One recommended approach is to set aside special time to build closeness with children.
Child and adolescent clinical psychologist Lydia Agnes Gultom, M.Psi., said one simple yet important step parents can take is to build emotional closeness through special time together with their children.
“The realistic recommendation I often provide to parents is to build bonding through special time,” she explained when contacted by Kompas.com on Saturday (14 March 2026).
According to Lydia, such special time does not need to be lengthy. Parents only need to set aside short but quality time to interact with their children.
“Let the child lead the activity or what they do, whether playing, making something, or just chatting,” she said.
Child and adolescent psychologist Gloria Siagian, M.Psi., also emphasised that parental presence in their children’s daily lives is essential to building emotional connection.
“Make it a habit to have time for your child. Work commitments are fine, but at minimum you should have some time each day,” Gloria said.
With consistent parental presence, children will feel attended to and have space to express their feelings.
“This special time should be uninterrupted by other activities and free from distractions. Also resist the urge to give advice or corrections to your child,” Lydia stated.
During this time, parents should be genuinely present and focused on their child. The activities conducted should follow the child’s wishes so they feel heard and valued.