PERKEMBANGAN LAYANAN KESEHATAN MENTAL DI INDONESIA: Tren, Tantangan, dan Arah Kebijakan

Abstract

This article explores the development of mental health services in Indonesia by examining current trends, persistent challenges, and future policy directions. The main objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of how mental health services have evolved, what structural and social barriers remain, and what strategies are needed to strengthen the system. The method applied is a qualitative literature review, analyzing national and international journal articles, government documents, and open-access reports published in recent years. A thematic synthesis approach was used to categorize findings into key themes, including policy development, community-based services, task-shifting to non-specialist health workers, the integration of digital health interventions, and human rights issues. The study results highlight that Indonesia has made progress through national action plans and the integration of mental health into primary care. Emerging trends include the increasing role of community cadres, the adoption of online counseling platforms, and the expansion of digital health applications to reduce treatment gaps. Nevertheless, challenges persist, such as limited mental health professionals, uneven distribution of services, persistent stigma, weak regulatory frameworks, and data protection concerns in digital interventions. In conclusion, strengthening Indonesia’s mental health system requires a holistic approach that combines community empowerment, digital innovation, regulatory reform, and human rights protection. Aligning national strategies with the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is essential to ensure equitable, sustainable, and inclusive mental health services for all