Youth substance abuse prevention programs expand in Mexico and Argentina

Regional health and social programs are implementing new strategies to address substance abuse and student well-being.

In Mexico, the Instituto Municipal Contra las Adicciones (IMCA) reported that over 103,000 students participated in the ‘Yo no soy cómplice’ program during the 2025-2026 school year. The initiative utilizes virtual reality to simulate risk scenarios, allowing officials to collect anonymous data on mental health and addiction. Director Alberto Ortuño Báez noted that while marijuana remains the primary illicit drug of choice among youth, there is a sustained increase in alcohol addiction. The data collected has helped georeference specific sectors requiring urgent social intervention.

In Gualeguaychú, Argentina, the ‘Serenata 0.0’ program has launched workshops for secondary school students. The initiative focuses on self-care habits, urban coexistence, and the risks of substance consumption ahead of student celebrations. The program involves coordination between health, transit, and youth departments to ensure festivities occur in authorized venues with adult supervision and strict adherence to local regulations.