The Jakarta Health Agency (Dinkes) officially launched the JakCare service, a digital-based mental health service innovation that provides free, safe, and 24-hour access to psychological consultations via telephone to the public.

Jakarta Dinkes Head, Ani Ruspitawati said this program is a concrete effort to expand easily accessible mental health services, in line with the increasing societal demand for psychological support.

According to her , the launch of JakCare is also part of a long-term response to the mental health of Jakarta residents as a global city.

"JakCare is available as a conversation partner that can be accessed anytime and anywhere. The public can directly consult with clinical psychologists from their digital devices, without needing to go to healthcare facilities and at no cost," she expressed, Thursday (5/22).

She explained JakCare provides free mental health teleconsultation connected directly with clinical psychologists. Users can access this service via the hotline 0-800-1500-119 or JAKI app.

They also noted that to date, 32 out of 44 community health centers in Jakarta have psychologists and mental health services are available in 31 regional public hospitals.

"In its implementation, JakCare collaborates with various parties, including professional organizations and healthcare facilities, to ensure that the services provided are of high quality and meet the ethical standards of the psychology profession," she explained.

Besides teleconsultation, individuals in need of further care will be directed to mental health service facilities available at community health centers or Jakarta's regional hospitals.

"We want them to know that they are not alone. There is a safe and professional space ready to help through JakCare," she stressed.

For more information, the public can download the JAKI app on their smartphones, or directly contact the toll-free JakCare hotline at 0-800-1500-119.