Understanding Indonesia’s mental health landscape requires a clear map of what has been studied, where, by whom, and with what focus. Responding to this need, a research team from the Center for Public Mental Health, Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, is undertaking a study to trace scientific publications on the prevalence, risk factors, and patterns of mental disorders across population groups and regions.
The study is grounded in the high burden of disease linked to mental health and the variability found in national and specialized surveys. Indonesia’s 2018 Basic Health Research (Riskesdas) reported a depression prevalence of 6.2%, while the 2023 Indonesia Health Survey estimated 1.4%—around 3.9 million people—with relatively higher rates among those aged 15–24 and older adults. Among adolescents, the 2022 Indonesia National Adolescent Mental Health Survey (I-NAMHS) reported a prevalence of 5.5% for mental health problems. Meanwhile, data on suicide cases compiled by law enforcement show dynamics that demand sustained attention. Together, these figures underscore the urgency of a systematic research map to guide prevention strategies, early detection, community-based interventions, and service strengthening with greater precision and evidence.
The research team includes faculty members, alumni, and students of the UGM Faculty of Psychology: Wulan Nur Jatmika, S.Psi., M.Sc., as principal investigator; Zahra Frida Intani, S.Psi., M.Psi., Psychologist, as faculty researchers; supported by alumni researchers Nurul Kusuma Hidayati, M.Psi., Psychologist; Annisa Khomsah Salsabila, S.Psi.; Alifah Sri Sabekti, S.Psi.; Marsha Prifirani., S.Psi.; and student researcher Hana Nasyifa. Ultimately, this initiative reflects the commitment of the UGM Faculty of Psychology to strengthen a research ecosystem aligned with societal needs, promote evidence-informed policy, and broaden the impact of psychological science for public well-being.
Writer:
Raden Roro Anisa Anggi Dinda
Alifah S Sabekti
Annisa Khomsah S