Mamasa Regency (September 22, 2024) - The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs released four People with Mental Disorders (ODGJ) who were shackled in Mambi District, Mamasa Regency, West Sulawesi. This humanitarian action is part of a series of Community Service activities scheduled to take place on September 24, 2024.

The practice of shackling, which is often carried out due to a lack of understanding of mental disorders, is a major challenge in the government's efforts to realize equality and protection of human rights. The four individuals who were released, including two women and two men, had been trapped in the shackles of injustice and stigma for years.

The first story comes from S (36) and MJ (53), two former Indonesian Migrant Workers (TKI) in Malaysia who experienced severe depression after their household separated. Instead of getting medical treatment, their families chose the tragic path of shackling them for more than three years. The deep trauma caused by this separation triggered the mental disorders they suffered, but social stigma and family misunderstanding worsened the situation.

In addition to S and MJ, two other men, A and YH, were also victims of shackling. YH, who was traumatized by the conflict over the expansion of Mamasa Regency in 2002, was shackled by his family because of his uncontrolled aggressive behavior. The conflict left deep wounds on YH's soul, which led to severe psychological disorders.

Meanwhile, A suffered from severe depression due to deep frustration when he felt unable to understand the books that were his source of hope. In his isolation, A was shackled because his behavior was considered dangerous to those around him. The family's lack of understanding of A's mental condition made him even more depressed.

In an effort to free them, the Ministry of Social Affairs played an active role by providing medical and psychological assistance by taking ODGJ to the Polwali Mandar Regional Hospital, as well as educating families and the community about the importance of proper handling of mental health problems. "We are all equal in humanity, including those with mental disorders. They also have the right to receive humane treatment and proper care," said Ricky Casanopa, Nurse at the Dharma Guna Bengkulu Center, Sunday (22/9/2024).

Through this step, the Ministry of Social Affairs hopes that the public will increasingly understand the importance of mental health and stop using inhumane shackling practices. With proper care, S, MJ, A, and YH are expected to be able to reintegrate into society and rebuild their life expectancy.

The government also invites all elements of society to play an active role in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all, especially those struggling with mental disorders. This initiative marks a step towards a more caring, inclusive, and stigma-free Indonesia towards mental health issues. (*)