Jakarta – To commemorate the 42nd National Children's Day (HAN) in 2026, the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) held a book review of "First Aid for Psychological Wounds (P3LP) for First Aiders in Schools" at the Ministry of Health's Siwabessy Auditorium on Thursday (July 23). This event was held to strengthen mental health literacy and develop first aiders in junior high and high school environments.
This collaborative activity between the Bureau of Communication and Public Information, the Directorate of Vulnerable Group Health Services, the Health Development Policy Agency (BKPK) and the Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) of the Ministry of Health is part of an effort to expand education on the importance of first aid for psychological wounds in the school environment.
In his opening remarks, the Head of the Ministry of Health's Communication and Public Information Bureau, Aji Muhawarman, stated, "This activity aims to not only improve health literacy but also introduce the Ministry of Health's book collection, particularly on mental health, and provide students with an understanding of P3LP (Mental Health Protection). We also want to strengthen synergy between the central and regional governments in mental health protection," Aji said.
This activity was attended by 150 participants consisting of representatives of the OSIS management, UKS, teachers, principals from junior high/high school levels throughout Jakarta, representatives of the Ministry of Health, and several partners of the Ministry of Health.
The Secretary of the BKPK, Etik Retno Wiyati, emphasized that the momentum of HAN 2026 with the theme "Love Children, Protect and Build the Future" is a reminder that the nation's greatest investment is not magnificent infrastructure or sophisticated technology, but rather healthy, intelligent, character-based, and mentally sound children.
"Physical and mental health are two sides of the same coin. When teenagers experience a crisis, the first people they turn to are their friends. Through this pocketbook, the Ministry of Health equips you to become a First Aider— a person who provides first aid to psychological wounds," explained Etik.
Etik added that the P3LP Pocket Book discussed today is one example of how scientific knowledge is translated into practical guidance that can be used not only by teachers and students, but also by the general public. The BKPK's commitment to disseminating knowledge is also demonstrated through the availability of a library with inclusive information literacy services, audiovisuals, a theater , a workspace, a kids' corner , and a Health Policy Gallery.
Ida Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Chairwoman of the Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) at the Ministry of Health, expressed similar support. She appreciated the enthusiasm of the students, who attended on their own initiative to learn to be advocates for themselves and their communities.
"Amidst the onslaught of social media and life's challenges, maintain a strong and healthy mentality. There will always be good people around you ready to help you when you face trials," said Ida.
Presenting as a resource person, Clinical Psychologist Sulastry Pardede explained that 1 in 8 children worldwide suffers from mental disorders, and 1 in 3 adolescents in Indonesia face significant mental health challenges. This transitional period, marked by physical, emotional, and social changes, makes adolescents particularly vulnerable to mental health issues.
"P3LP is the most basic and simple psychological support to reduce excessive stress in people experiencing severe events. There are three main principles in P3LP: Look , Listen , and Link (connecting to professional help if needed)," explained Sulastry.
As part of the event, the Ministry of Health also announced the winners of the P3LP Poster Competition for junior high and high school students throughout Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek), which took place from July 5-16, 2026. A total of 129 posters (67 for junior high and 62 for high school) were rigorously screened by a panel of judges based on theme suitability, creativity, visual communication, and call to action. (Writer: Nisa Fitriyani, Editor: HDI Work Team)
