Depression affects more than 300 million people worldwide with more than 800,000 suicides per year, according to the World Health Organization. More than half of those suffering from depression receive no treatment. In Mexico, it is estimated that every day 16 young people between 12 and 24 years of age take their own lives, making suicide the second most common cause of teenage deaths in the country. Factors such as stress management, anxiety and lack of emotional resources need to be addressed.

We have carried out programs to raise the awareness of the population around the stigma of seeking care for mental illness, as well as have put into place specific strategies to address burnout among health personnel in Ciudad Juarez who regularly work with victims of violence. Through the development of life skills and the strengthening of emotional resources, each person learns strategies to manage stress and anxiety. Barriers to seek specialized care when needed are reduced.