INJUs Week: Promoting Youth Emotional Well-being
Uruguay Tackles Youth Mental Health Crisis: “Neither Silence Nor taboo” Program Expands Reach
Montevideo, uruguay – A stark warning has been issued regarding the escalating suicide rate in Uruguay, notably among young peopel who have experienced rights violations. This critical social issue has prompted a nationwide initiative to bolster mental health support for adolescents and young adults. The call for a “global vision and transversalization of educational, social, and health policies” underscores the urgency and multi-faceted approach required to address this challenge.
“Neither Silence Nor Taboo”: A National Commitment to Youth Well-being
The “Neither Silence Nor Taboo” program,a cornerstone of Uruguay’s mental health strategy,aims to ”sensitize,promote,and attend” to the emotional well-being of individuals aged 14 to 24. This thorough program operates through dedicated centers strategically located across the country, including Río Negro, Rocha, Florida, Fray Bentos, and Montevideo.
Showcasing Progress and Fostering Dialog
Recent activities have highlighted the program’s impact and provided platforms for open discussion. An exhibition showcased products from express workshops, including those from the Center in Cerro Largo, focusing on breaking the silence and taboos surrounding mental health. Interactive presentations of photography and emotions workshop products from the Río Negro center, alongside an exhibition of paintings from the Florida center’s art and emotions workshop, demonstrated the creative outlets being utilized. the Rocha center contributed a game designed to encourage open dialogue about mental health challenges.
Beyond these creative expressions, a week of reflection and engagement, from July 14th to 21st, saw nationwide activities dedicated to mental health awareness. The Ministry of Social Development’s website provided a comprehensive overview of these proposals.
The opening of Mental Health Week featured a pivotal conversation titled “Let’s Talk to Heal: A space for reflection and open dialogue.” This session provided a vital platform for adolescents and young people from various regions to share their experiences and discuss the challenges they face. Key figures in education and child welfare also participated, including Pablo Caggiani, President of the National Public Education Management (ANEP), and Claudia Romero, President of the children’s Institute and Adolescents (INAU).
Program Impact and future Directions
The “Neither Silence Nor Taboo” program has demonstrated significant reach and impact since its inception. Data reveals a strong engagement with its services:
Therapeutic Attention: In the last four months, therapeutic services within the centers have reached 598 adolescents and young people.
Prevention Workshops: During the same period, 2,141 young people and adolescents actively participated in prevention workshops.
Widespread Participation: Since 2022, over 55,000 adolescents and young people have engaged in specific “Neither Silence Nor Taboo” workshops.
Adult Engagement: More than 4,000 adult referents have benefited from training instances, including capacity development cycles and online training, since 2022.
These figures underscore the program’s commitment to fostering a supportive surroundings and equipping both young people and their adult mentors with the tools to navigate mental health challenges. The ongoing expansion and dedication to these initiatives signal Uruguay’s firm resolve to confront its youth mental health crisis head-on.
