Report on the Mental Health Situation in Argentina

Abstract

The report analyzes the mental health crisis in Argentina, based on the participation of 16 provinces that comprise more than half of the country's population. As part of a health surveillance system, it notes a sustained increase in mental health conditions, aggravated by the pandemic, the socioeconomic crisis, and the withdrawal of national health care policies.
The public health system is facing a very difficult situation due to the growing demand caused by the crisis in other health subsystems. The loss of coverage by union health insurance companies, given rising unemployment in Argentina, the abandonment of prepaid medical care by many citizens, and the withdrawal of direct funding from the national government for health benefits and investments, is generating overload and stress on public health systems.
Despite this, several provinces implemented expansion and strengthening policies: hiring staff, increasing beds in general hospitals, creating homes with community support systems, inter-ministerial programs for children and youth, and strategies to prevent suicide and problematic substance use.
The report concludes that it is necessary to strengthen public health as a social good, guarantee specific funding, prioritize care for children and adolescents, and deepen the implementation of the National Mental Health Law within a federal framework and with a community focus.