Every October 10th , World Mental Health Day is commemorated in Colombia , a date dedicated to reflecting on the importance of people's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. This day aims to raise awareness about mental disorders, combat stigma, and promote actions that guarantee comprehensive mental health care for all Colombians.
Importance of World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to recognize that mental health is just as essential as physical health. In Colombia, thousands of people live with anxiety, depression, work-related stress, or mood disorders, often without a diagnosis or adequate support.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has been promoting this date since 1992 with the purpose of raising awareness among governments, institutions and citizens about the need to take care of mental health, prevent crises and offer support to those who need it.
According to the Ministry of Health, one in five people in Colombia has experienced some type of mental disorder , with depression and anxiety being the most common. Therefore, this day aims to promote empathy, respect, and access to timely treatment.
How World Mental Health Day is commemorated in Colombia
In different regions of the country, campaigns, discussions, talks and fairs focused on emotional self-care and suicide prevention are being held.
Some of the most outstanding activities are:
Free psychosocial support days in hospitals and universities.
Talks on stress management and workplace well-being in companies.
Community spaces for active listening and emotional support.
Digital campaigns with positive messages on social media under hashtags such as #MentalHealthColombia and #WorldMentalHealthDay.
In cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Barranquilla, the mayoral offices promote spaces for dialogue with psychologists, psychiatrists, and social leaders to bring mental health services closer to the community.
Central theme of World Mental Health Day
Each year the WHO chooses a different theme. In 2025, the focus is on “Mental health as a universal right,” an invitation to ensure that everyone has access to support services, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location.
In Colombia, this motto is adapted to local needs with programs focused on youth, victims of armed conflict, and vulnerable populations.
Mental health in the Colombian context
Mental health in Colombia has gained visibility in recent years, especially after the pandemic, when cases of anxiety, isolation, and emotional crises increased.
The country has made progress in public policies, but still faces challenges:
Lack of specialized professionals in rural areas.
Social stigmatization towards those who seek psychological help.
Low investment in preventative programs.
Despite this, the Ministry of Health, together with entities such as Colciencias and universities, develops community care strategies and school programs that promote emotional well-being from an early age.
Warning signs in mental health
Recognizing early signs can make all the difference. Some signs that indicate the need to seek support include:
Frequent or prolonged mood swings.
Difficulty sleeping or eating.
Loss of interest in everyday activities.
Isolation or recurring negative thoughts.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Talking about mental health is not synonymous with weakness, but an act of courage and self-care.
Resources and support lines in Colombia
The country has various free helplines and support channels for people who need help:
Line 192 option 4: mental health care from the Ministry of Health.
Line 106: available in Bogotá for psychological emergencies.
ICBF Line 141: for guidance to children and adolescents.
National Mental Health Network: available in public hospitals and EPS.
There are also communities and foundations such as Mentes Abiertas , Fundación Ser Feliz and Red Papaz that provide psychological support and educational workshops.
What can you do to take care of your mental health?
Adopting simple habits can improve your emotional well-being. Some helpful tips include:
Sleep well and maintain rest routines.
Practice physical exercise or outdoor activities.
Maintain a balanced diet.
Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeine.
Learn breathing and relaxation techniques.
Talk to friends or family about your emotions.
Seek professional support when needed.
Education and mental health in young people
In Colombia, emotional problems among young people have increased, especially due to academic pressure, bullying, and excessive use of social media.
Therefore, educational institutions implement programs for school coexistence, stress management, and emotional education , seeking to prevent youth suicide and strengthen empathy.
In addition, initiatives such as "University Wellbeing Day" and campaigns like "You are not alone" are promoted, offering free psychological support in public and private universities.
Mental health and work in Colombia
The work environment also impacts mental health. According to studies by the Labor Observatory, stress and burnout syndrome affect thousands of Colombian workers every year.
Conscious companies implement strategies such as:
Wellness programs and active breaks.
Flexible hours and partial remote work.
Psychological support for employees.
These practices improve productivity and strengthen the work environment.
A collective commitment
World Mental Health Day in Colombia reminds us that caring for the mind is everyone's responsibility: institutions, families, communities, and governments.
Promoting empathy, eliminating prejudice, and creating safe spaces to talk about the issue are fundamental steps towards a healthier society.