Based on mental health screenings of 13 million Indonesians through the Free Health Check program as of Aug. 15, 2025, findings showed that 1 percent experienced symptoms of depression and 0.9 percent experienced symptoms of anxiety. Compared with national surveys and global estimates, where the prevalence of depression typically ranges between 3-5 percent, these figures appear relatively low.
Nurul Kusuma Hidayati, Manager of the Center for Public Mental Health, Universitas Gadjah Mada (CPMH UGM), explained that the factors contributing to the emergence of depression and anxiety are varied.
“There is never a single factor. They may include psychological and socio-economic pressures, chronic illness, employment, as well as limited access to psychological health services,” said the psychologist on Wednesday (Sep. 24).
In addition, stigma and low levels of mental health literacy mean that many cases go undetected and untreated.
“Another contributing factor is the generally underdeveloped coping skills in managing stress,” she added.
Depression and anxiety, according to Hidayati, clearly affect productivity by reducing people’s ability to work, either through absenteeism or presenteeism.
“Globally, these conditions are estimated to result in an economic loss of more than US$1 trillion per year, while also diminishing quality of life and social relationships,” she explained.
She further noted that if not properly addressed, depression and anxiety can pose long-term risks.
Symptoms should be identified early to prevent them from developing into chronic disorders that may lead to maladaptive coping, substance abuse, deteriorating physical health, and even suicidal behavior.
“On the other hand, psychological, economic, and social burdens also weigh heavily on individuals, families, and communities,” she added.
To reduce the prevalence of depression and anxiety, Hidayati emphasized the need to prioritize improving mental health literacy to reduce stigma, both internally and externally, and to strengthen early detection skills within households and primary healthcare settings.
She also called for the expansion of evidence-based programs or interventions that can be implemented by non-specialist health workers.
“It is also important to promote sustainable preventive efforts and establish referral pathways for mental health problems in schools, universities, and workplaces,” she concluded.
Author: Jelita Agustine
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Illustration: Freepik