North Sumatra Health Office Detects Early Mental Health Issues Through Free Screening Programme

The North Sumatra Provincial Health Office is detecting early signs of mental health disorders in patients through the Free Health Check (CKG) programme. “It is not only detecting physical illnesses, but also identifying indications of mental health issues in residents from an early stage,” said Hery Valona Bonatua Ambarita, Head of the Public Health Division at the North Sumatra Health Office, during a press conference at the Governor’s Office on Friday. This situation signals that mental health is a serious challenge that needs to be addressed systematically and sustainably at the district and city level across North Sumatra. “During health screenings, we found people experiencing anxiety and stress, though still in the early stages. Anyone can experience this, but it must be managed so it does not develop into a severe mental disorder,” he said. The Ministry of Health estimates that around 1.2 per cent, or 28 million Indonesians, experience symptoms of anxiety and stress that could potentially become mental health problems if not handled properly. “This means that out of 10 people screened, one to two are identified as People with Mental Health Issues (ODMK). This condition is still situational, so it must be managed by strengthening self-defence mechanisms as well as through education and therapy,” Hery said. He explained that screening results show adolescents are the group most frequently indicated to experience anxiety and stress in North Sumatra. Contributing factors include heavy school workloads. Meanwhile, adults often face pressure due to economic issues, such as the cost of education and the demands of daily life. To address these issues, the government is implementing two approaches. First, conducting early detection and treatment for ODMK to prevent the development of severe mental disorders. Second, providing comprehensive services for People with Mental Disorders (ODGJ) who require specialist psychiatric care, intensive therapy, or hospitalisation. “We have currently been given a target to screen 22,000 people regarding mental health. To date, we have reached over 13,000, or 67 per cent. We are confident that by December we can achieve the target,” he stated.