Resident at the University of Indonesia’s School of Psychiatry
The recent World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10 was an appropriate reminder that eradicating stigma is still an unfinished task in improving the lives of people with mental illness. In recent years we have seen a welcome improvement in mental-health awareness. Driven by the high prevalence of mentalhealth issues worldwide and its vast impact on public health, stakeholders are organizing to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental-health services so that people can access the help they need. Social campaigns have been launched in many parts of the world, and public figures openly talk about their mentalhealth struggles as a reminder that it can happen to anyone. However, one year into my psychiatric residency training, I realize we still have much work to do. Combating stigma so people can reach out for help is one thing, but educating the public about mental health is quite another st...
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post.