Banjarmasin, S Kalimatan (ANTARA) - Social Affairs Minister Tri Rismaharini has freed two people with mental health disorders (ODGJ) from being shackled in Bagagap Village, Barambai Sub-district, Barito Kuala (Batola) District, South Kalimantan, Wednesday.
The Minister freed them during her visit for two days, June 11-12, 2024, in the district.
Risma emphasized that ODGJ should not be shackled, but should be given medication regularly every month so that sufferers do not experienced depression and they can live a decent life like ordinary people.
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She made a point that families of ODGJ should not be embarrassed, because ODGJ is not disgrace, but can be cured with treatment routinely and orderly.
“Families should not be embarrassed, this is not disgrace. Anyone in the family can get it, because not everyone is strong psychologically, not everyone is mentally strong. Sometimes even very rich people get into trouble too, just because they understand they have to seek treatment so it seems as if its okay,” said Risma.
She compared it to someone who suffers from hearrt disease or diabetes, if they don't take medication regularly they can relapse, just like ODGJ.
Acting Regent of Barito Kuala Mujiyat said that the presence of Minister of Social Affairs was a form of very high concern.
Mujiyat promised to follow up on unsolved problmes, including Health Agency will increase routine vaccine injection for communities every month.
“Hopefully this can stimulate the community in Barito Kuala, especially people with special needs, ODGJ, leprosy, everyone feels protected. Even today two places have freed shackles and the Minister did not hesitate.This indicate a very high concern,” said Mujiyat.
Previously, the Social Affairs Minister have also released an ODGJ woman in Sungai Lirik Village from her shackle, to be given an intensive treatment at the Sambang Lihum Mental Hospital in Banjar District, South Kalimantan.
In Sungai Lirik Village, Batola, officers also brought another ODGJ woman who was known to be the sister of the ODGJ woman who was in shackles.
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