# Mental health and public health trends in Latin America

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mental-health-and-public-health-trends-in-latin-america
> Updated: 2026-08-19T13:40:36.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Public health concerns regarding mental health and psychological disorders are increasing in the Dominican Republic and Mexico. In the Dominican Republic, researchers note that anxiety and depression are rising at rates exceeding conditions such as cancer and diabetes, particularly in socioeconomically vulnerable areas. Regional data shows that suicide rates are highest in Santiago and Santo Domingo.

In Yucatán, Mexico, psychiatrists report that anxiety, major depression, and substance use disorders affect approximately 30% of the population, with anxiety being the most common disorder among children. Additionally, studies indicate that adolescent cannabis use is linked to a significantly higher risk of developing psychotic and bipolar disorders, highlighting the intersection of substance use and long-term mental health risks.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-19: Dominican Republic reports varying regional patterns in violent deaths and mental health risks

Recent data in the Dominican Republic reveals diverse regional patterns in homicides, accidents, and suicides, alongside rising concerns regarding adolescent cannabis use and its link to mental health risks.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-republic-reports-varying-regional-patterns-in-violent-deaths-and-mental-health-risks

### 2026-08-19: Mental health disorders rise in Dominican Republic and Mexico

Anxiety and depression are rising as major mental health concerns in the Dominican Republic and Yucatán, Mexico, driven by socioeconomic, biological, and social factors.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mental-health-disorders-rise-in-dominican-republic-and-mexico

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Cite as: Mental health and public health trends in Latin America. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mental-health-and-public-health-trends-in-latin-america