Mental health initiatives launched in Tarija and Santa Cruz

In Tarija, authorities have announced the creation of a Mental Health Unit following the registration of 185 suicides over the last five years. The initiative aims to strengthen prevention, care, and support, specifically targeting the 15 to 25 age demographic, which has been identified as one of the most affected groups. The unit intends to foster collaboration between families, educational institutions, and social organizations to identify risks early.

In Santa Cruz, the Multisectoral Mental Health Table and the Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia Austral (UNPA) are pushing for the establishment of a mental health observatory. This project seeks to address a critical lack of official statistics and unified records in the province. Advocates note an increase in anxiety, substance use, and psychosocial issues among children and adolescents, exacerbated by socioeconomic crises and limited healthcare resources.