Many Indonesian Children Experience Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression, Psychologists Explain the Causes
Indonesia’s Ministry of Health has identified indications of mental health problems manifesting as anxiety and depression in hundreds of thousands of children across the country.
This finding emerged after approximately 7 million children underwent health screening through the Free Health Check (CKG) programme during the 2025–2026 period.
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin reported that 4.4 per cent, or approximately 338,000 children, displayed symptoms of anxiety disorder.
These findings have raised concerns and prompted questions about the factors causing many children to experience mental health problems from an early age. What factors can trigger anxiety and depression in children?
One factor that can trigger anxiety and depression disorders in children originates from biological aspects.
“This factor can result from hormones, puberty, and physical health conditions,” said clinical child and adolescent psychologist Lydia Agnes Gultom, M.Psi., speaking to Kompas.com on Saturday (14 March 2026).
Biological changes during growth, particularly upon entering puberty, can affect a child’s emotional state. The hormonal changes occurring during this phase often make children more emotionally sensitive.
Furthermore, certain physical health conditions can also influence children’s mental health. Children with chronic illnesses or specific health conditions are at greater risk of experiencing emotional stress compared to their peers.
Beyond biological factors, children’s psychological condition also plays a significant role in the emergence of anxiety and depression symptoms.
Children with low self-confidence or difficulty managing emotions tend to be more vulnerable to psychological stress. This situation can become increasingly complex if the child has experienced trauma.
Unresolved trauma can leave lasting emotional impacts. This can subsequently trigger excessive anxiety or prolonged feelings of sadness.