Recovery for individuals with mental health disorders (ODGJ) cannot simply stop at the phase of psychological stabilization. Helping them regain independence, interact with others, and fulfill social roles within the community is a crucial part of the ongoing recovery process.

To address this need, an inter-university community service team from Universitas Mercu Buana Yogyakarta (UMBY) and Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) has launched a Community-Based Psychosocial Rehabilitation Daycare Program at the GEMASEHATI Association in Ambarketawang Village, Sleman.

Funded by the Directorate General of Research and Development (Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology), the program is led by Dr. Sheilla Varadhila Peristianto, M.Psi., Psychologist (UMBY), with team members Dr. Kamsih Astuti, M.Si., Psychologist (UMBY) and Dr. Heni Trisnowati, M.P.H. (UAD).

Team leader Dr. Sheilla Varadhila Peristianto emphasized that this daycare was specifically designed as a natural recovery space at the community level, rather than merely a place for individuals with mental health disorders to pass the time.

"The goal is to create a recovery space within the community—a place where they can relearn how to perform activities, interact with others, and gradually develop independence in their daily lives," Sheilla explained.

This approach utilizes an adapted version of the Community-Based Psychosocial Rehabilitation Daycare Operational Module, tailored to the local needs of individuals with mental health disorders, their families, and local mental health volunteers. The program content is structured into operational activities ranging from cognitive and sensorimotor stimulation, emotional regulation, and relaxation techniques to meaningful daily activities.

The recovery process for individuals with mental health disorders relies heavily on support from their immediate environment. Consequently, this program positions caregivers (family members) and mental health volunteers as key pillars.

On July 3, 2026, a total of 21 caregivers and volunteers participated in capacity-building training. During the session, psychologist Rahma Adellia, S.Psi., presented material on the principles of psychosocial rehabilitation and strategies for supporting individuals with mental health disorders (ODGJ) so they can gradually become independent.

Families directly experienced the positive impact of this training. SU, a caregiver, reported observing significant changes in their family member.

“We look forward to activities like this that provide the information we need on what to do. They become enthusiastic about engaging in activities and interacting more,” SU stated.

The daycare program, involving 11 participants with mental health disorders, launched on July 9, 2026, and continued with support activities on July 31, 2026. The activities were designed to be simple and enjoyable while serving clear rehabilitative purposes.

Beading and embroidery activities were used to train hand-eye coordination and concentration, as well as to instill a sense of confidence upon task completion. Puzzles and educational cards helped stimulate cognitive functions such as memory and simple problem-solving. Meanwhile, planting and caring for plants taught ongoing responsibility and served as a productive shared activity.

This interactive space brought a renewed sense of energy to the participants. Their enthusiasm was evident throughout the event. One participant, identified by the initials LE, expressed joy at being able to engage in activities with peers again.

“I’m happy there are so many activities; I can get together and create things with friends,” LE said.

Each daycare session began with a welcome, a health check, and a simple explanation of instructions. Participants then engaged in individual or group activities with measured support—facilitators did not take over the tasks but provided gradual assistance tailored to each participant's abilities. Sessions concluded with an evaluation, positive reinforcement, and documentation on monitoring worksheets.

The program also received full support from the Gamping 1 Community Health Center (Puskesmas). Isti Faiyah, A.Md. Keb., a health worker at the center, welcomed the establishment of this recovery space. “This activity is crucial for psychosocial rehabilitation and the role of families or the community; there is a wealth of knowledge and tools available to ensure the daycare’s sustainability,” explained Isti.

To ensure the program's continuity, the community service team has provided various supporting resources to the GEMASEHATI Association, ranging from cognitive activity materials, sensory-motor tools, and daily living supplies to modules and monitoring kits.

By strengthening the capacity of community volunteers and families, the daycare is expected to operate independently, demonstrating that the recovery of individuals with mental health disorders goes beyond merely alleviating symptoms—it is about restoring their right to be empowered and reintegrated into society.