Mental health is a fundamental pillar of our overall well-being, as it directly influences our quality of life and our daily interactions. Therefore, it is imperative to actively promote mental health self-care among adolescents, as this not only affects their present well-being, but also lays the foundation for a healthy and balanced adult life in the future.
Adolescence, characterized by changes, discoveries and challenges, presents a complex scenario for many young people. Beyond the typical hormonal turbulence or academic pressures, some face additional difficulties, especially those who come from vulnerable homes and lack the guidance and tools necessary to face these challenges.
Costa Rica is currently facing great challenges to provide timely and quality services to the population requiring mental health support, especially after the pandemic, where the demand for these services has increased significantly.
According to The Lancet, Costa Rica experienced a 35.2% increase in depressive disorders and a 35.6% increase in anxiety disorders during 2020. In addition, in the first half of 2021, there was an increased incidence of depression cases in minors, as reported by the Ministry of Health in its surveillance report. At the beginning of 2024, 26% of the population seen for suicidal intent corresponds to people between 15 and 19 years of age, followed by 16% of people between 10 and 14 years of age.
In light of this situation, Asociación Roblealto recognizes the seriousness of this data and considers it a call to redouble our efforts. Through its Adolescent Care Program, the organization has played a fundamental role in providing a safe haven where adolescents can express themselves freely and develop the skills necessary to face the emotional and social challenges of adolescence.
In addition, Asociación Roblealto has been instrumental in guiding and supporting a significant group of adolescents to develop fundamental skills that directly influence their mental health.
Empowering these young people to make informed decisions, overcome frustrations, manage anger and stress, as well as fostering resilience and self-awareness, are essential aspects. Strengthening family and community ties, turning them into safe environments for adolescents, as well as facilitating the achievement of autonomy, are pillars that not only contribute to individual well-being, but also strengthen mental health in general. These skills and values, instilled from adolescence, become vital tools to face future challenges and build a solid foundation for a balanced and fulfilling life.
After a thorough reflection on the importance of adolescent mental health and the efforts made to address these challenges, it is clear that much remains to be done. However, we are making significant strides toward a healthier and more equitable future for generations to come.
It is essential that we continue to collaborate at a community, government and organizational levels to promote the mental well-being of adolescents and ensure that they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. In doing so, we will not only be investing in the future of our society, but we will also be creating a world where everyone can reach their full potential and live full and meaningful lives. Ultimately, it is our collective responsibility to work together to build a society where mental health is a priority and where every adolescent feels valued, supported and empowered on their journey to adulthood.
Bibliography
- Epidemiological Bulletin No. 1 of 2022, Ministry of Health Costa Rica. https://www.ministeriodesalud.go.cr/index.php/biblioteca-de-archivos-left/documentos-ministerio-de-salud/material-informativo/material-publicado/boletines/boletines-vigilancia-vs-enfermedades-de-transmision-vectorial/boletines-epidemiologicos-2022/5848-boletin-epidemiologico-n-1/file
- .Epidemiological Bulletin No. 1 of 2024, Ministry of Health, Costa Rica. https://www.ministeriodesalud.go.cr/index.php/biblioteca-de-archivos-left/documentos-ministerio-de-salud/material-informativo/material-publicado/boletines/boletines-vigilancia-vs-enfermedades-de-transmision-vectorial/boletines-epidemiologicos-2024/7191-boletin-epidemiologico-n-1-2/file
- The Lancent, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(21)02143-7
Meyling Berroteran
Licenciada en Trabajo Social y
Directora del Programa de Atención al Adolescente Asociación Roblealto
