More Than 2 Thousand People in Indonesia Still Experience Shackling
A recent report from the health sector has revealed a concerning fact regarding mental health conditions in Indonesia. Currently, it is recorded that more than 2,000 people are still experiencing the practice of shackling. This practice involves confining or tying up a person with a mental disorder in an unsuitable place, such as a dark room or a wooden cage.
Shackling often occurs due to a lack of understanding among families regarding how to handle family members who suffer from mental disorders. Furthermore, limited access to mental health facilities and the perceived high cost of treatment are the main reasons why many families choose to take this action. This indicates that mental health education in the community still needs to be significantly improved.
The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Health, actually has a program to stop the practice of shackling across all regions. This program focuses on providing appropriate medical services, regular medication, and support for the patients' families. However, geographical challenges and negative stigma in society have caused efforts to liberate the victims to progress quite slowly.
Health experts emphasize that every person with a mental disorder has the right to receive humane and proper care. Shackling not only violates human rights but also worsens the patient's physical and mental health conditions. Therefore, collaboration between the government, medical personnel, and the community is essential to ensure that no one lives in a shackled condition in the future.