Presentation Information
[SY-76-03]The Enduring Legacy of Professor Norman Sartorius on Psychiatry in Indonesia: Insights from Early-Career Psychiatrists
*Ekachaeryanti Zain1,2 (1.Department of Psychiatry, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences(Japan), 2.Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Mulawarman University(Indonesia))
Keywords:
Global Psychiatry,Early-Career Psychiatrists,Stigma Reduction,Leadership Development,Cultural Sensitivity
Professor Norman Sartorius’s contributions to global psychiatry have profoundly influenced the development of psychiatric education, leadership, and stigma reduction worldwide. To explore his impact in Asia, we conducted a survey among Indonesian psychiatrists, gathering reflections on how his teachings shaped psychiatric practice and professional growth.The majority of respondents were early-career psychiatrists practicing in Indonesia, with 80% reporting familiarity with Professor Sartorius’s work. A significant proportion identified his contributions as either “significant” or “very significant” to the advancement of psychiatry in Indonesia. His emphasis on international collaboration, leadership development, mental health advocacy, and stigma reduction emerged as key areas of influence.Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelagic country, encompasses 1,331 ethnic categories, 633 ethnic groups, and 706 native languages. This diversity presents unique challenges for mental health professionals, who must navigate varying beliefs, stigma, and access to care. In this context, the global perspective championed by Professor Sartorius, emphasizing open-mindedness, cultural sensitivity, and mutual respect, has been particularly impactful. His teachings inspire Indonesian early-career psychiatrists to view cultural diversity not as a barrier, but as an opportunity for innovation, collaboration, and culturally sensitive mental health advocacy.The survey revealed remarkable resilience and commitment among young psychiatrists to advocacy and leadership. Stigma reduction was emphasized as a critical priority, highlighting how global mentorship and initiatives established by Professor Sartorius, such as the Courses for the Academic Development of Psychiatrists (CADP) and the formation of international professional networks among psychiatric trainees and early-career psychiatrists, can empower mental health professionals to perform leadership roles in countries where stigma remains prevalent.This presentation will share the survey findings, reflect on the continued relevance of Professor Sartorius’s legacy in Indonesia, and discuss how his teachings continue to guide early-career psychiatrists in addressing evolving mental health challenges across Asia, with a particular focus on Indonesia.