PDSKJI: Need for Educational Warnings on Mental Health-Related Advertisements

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Association of Psychiatrists (PDSKJI) has stressed the importance of embedding educational warnings in advertisements broadcast in public spaces related to mental health.

General Chairman of PDSKJI, dr. Agung Frijanto, conveyed this in response to the promotional billboards for the film “Aku Harus Mati” displayed in public spaces, which have now been confirmed removed from all locations by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government.

“Public spaces are accessed by various age groups and backgrounds, including children, adolescents, and individuals experiencing mental pressure. Repeated exposure to messages about death and despair without proper context has the potential to trigger those with a history of depression or suicidal ideation,” he said in an official statement in Jakarta on Monday.

PDSKJI asserts that it does not restrict freedom of expression in artistic works, but the conveyance of messages in public spaces must be accompanied by social responsibility, given the highly sensitive themes presented, thus requiring consideration of their impact on society.

PDSKJI also urges all stakeholders in the creative industry, regulators, and the public to jointly create a psychologically safer environment.

“It is important to include educational context or safer messages. Collaboration with mental health professionals is also necessary so that communication remains responsible, and the protection of vulnerable groups must be a primary concern,” said Agung.

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has also stated the need to regulate promotional materials for films deemed controversial, such as “Aku Harus Mati,” because displaying such content in public spaces risks triggering suicide imitation among vulnerable individuals.

“Repeated exposure to messages that romanticise or normalise such actions can become a trigger for individuals with a history of depression, impulsivity, or traumatic experiences,” said Imran.

Public debate as a reaction to the advertising materials, he said, is not merely about aesthetics or freedom of expression. When suicide themes are presented without caution, the impact can affect public safety. According to him, advertisements must be presented safely, as outlined in advertising ethics.