Chains of Madness

Pasung, the shackling of people with psychosocial disabilities,has been illegal in Indonesia since 1977, yet it remains widespread, especially in rural Java. Beyond poor healthcare access and infrastructure, the main driver is stigma: mental illness is often seen as a spiritual or moral failing. Families turn to traditional healers, faith rituals, or privately run healing centers with no oversight, often staffed by untrained individuals, including former patients. Conditions are sometimes inhumane. Residents are chained in filthy, overcrowded spaces, forced to eat, sleep, and defecate within their surroundings. Some centers administer antipsychotic drugs or shock therapy with little supervision. Widespread infections, malnutrition and severe trauma are common repercussions.
Despite the UN’s recognition of mental health as a fundamental right, cultural beliefs and systemic neglect leave many untreated. Real change demands not only funding, but education, compassion, and community outreach to break cycles of shame and offer dignity to those suffering.