PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Bandung City Government (Pemkot) has begun strengthening mental health services by introducing clinical psychology services at 12 community health centers (Puskesmas). This service represents a serious step by the Bandung City Government in responding to high levels of stress and mental health disorders, which have now even affected school-aged children.

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan stated that the service is mandated by Minister of Health Regulation Number 19 of 2024, which requires clinical psychology personnel in primary health care facilities.

"Every UPTD (Regional Health Unit) or community health center (Puskesmas) offers clinical psychology counseling services. Currently, 12 community health centers in Bandung City offer these services," Farhan said at the launch of the Clinical Psychology Services at 12 Community Health Centers in Bandung City on Tuesday (May 12, 2026).

The 12 Community Health Centers are the Babakan Sari, Garuda, Cibuntu, Cipamokolan, Kopo, Puter, Padasuka, Ibrahim Adjie, Sukarasa, Pasirkaliki, Salam and Cipadung Community Health Centers.

He explained that each community health center will have one clinical psychologist assigned to provide counseling services every weekday. The service is targeted to handle up to 10 patients per day.

According to him, this service is an urgent need because mental health disorders in Bandung continue to increase. In fact, cases of stress and psychological distress are now common among productive age groups, including elementary school children.

"One of the most frightening indicators for me is the suicide attempts in Bandung. There's news about them every day. This must be prevented very seriously," he said.

The Bandung City Government has also begun implementing preventative measures, including monitoring several locations considered prone to suicide attempts. However, Farhan emphasized that the primary effort must begin with strengthening mental health services in healthcare facilities.

The selection of 12 community health centers as the initial stage was said to be based not on the level of regional density, but rather on the readiness of health facilities and resources.

According to him, clinical psychology service rooms must have high privacy standards so that people feel safe and comfortable during consultations.

"The main consideration is the availability of the space. Clinical psychology can't be done carelessly; privacy must be very strong," he said.

Farhan believes that high economic and social pressures are the main causes of the rise in mental health disorders in society. Therefore, he urged the public to stop turning a blind eye to or denying mental health issues.

"If there really is a problem like this, then we have to provide services," he said.

The counseling service is open to anyone, both Bandung residents and those from outside the region. Farhan stated that health facilities should not be exclusive and should be accessible to all people who need assistance.

He also encouraged the public to not hesitate to consult with the community health center. He believes that simple steps like talking and finding someone to talk to can be an important first step in maintaining mental health.

"Confiding in others. One, sharing one's feelings, finding someone to talk to. The other, worshipping," he said. (Bandung City Communications and Information Service/rka)