Greetings, Rhinos!
Did you know that Indonesia is entering a period of demographic bonus from 2025 to 2035? This phase brings opportunities for our human resources to thrive and contribute positively to society. However, there are challenges, particularly concerning the mental health of our younger generation.
Indonesia is currently facing a growing concern about the availability of psychologists. This issue is particularly critical as the country enters a demographic bonus period from 2025 to 2035, emphasizing the need for a healthy and productive workforce.
According to the Indonesia – National Adolescent Mental Health Survey (I-NAMHS) in 2023, approximately one in three teenagers, which is about 34.9% or 15.5 million teens in Indonesia, have experienced a mental health disorder within the past year. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health issues among teenagers, affecting both males and females equally.
However, a significant challenge arises in terms of seeking professional help. Only 2.6% of teens with mental health disorders accessed support or counselling facilities in the past year, indicating a gap in mental health services utilization among adolescents.
Adding to the concern, Indonesia faces a shortage of mental health professionals. As of October 2021, there were only 1,053 psychiatrists in the country, serving approximately 250,000 people per psychiatrist. Likewise, the number of active clinical psychologists in Indonesia as of October 2023 was 2,917, with each psychologist having to serve around 90,000 people. These ratios fall far short of the WHO standard, which recommends a ratio of 1 psychiatrist or clinical psychologist to 30,000 people.
The distribution of clinical psychologists is also uneven, with most practitioners concentrated in major cities like Jakarta. This situation highlights the urgent need to address the shortage of mental health professionals, particularly clinical psychologists, to ensure adequate support for the population's mental well-being.
For those interested in making a difference and contributing to mental health care in Indonesia, pursuing a career in clinical psychology could be a valuable choice. If you enjoy working with human emotions and helping others, this major could be perfect for you. Additionally, you can explore Psychology at UNIJI, where you can specialize in Clinical Psychology, Educational and Developmental Psychology, or Industrial/Organizational Psychology.
Here at the University of Jakarta International (UNIJI), we strive to bring international-level curriculum and quality education to students in Indonesia. Our goal is to be one of the best universities in Indonesia and to be the leading international university in Jakarta. The learning process at UNIJI puts practical skills forward, ensuring alumni and graduates are ready to work and compete globally after graduating. Be career-ready after graduation with UNIJI!
Thank you, and see you at the next update!
Source:
Berkas.dpr.go.id
Indonesia – National Adolescent Mental Health Survey (I-NAMHS).
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