As the year comes to a close, health officials are encouraging families and communities to support adolescents and young people as they navigate this period, which can bring about emotional challenges.
Agustín Yécora, Secretary of Mental Health, Addictions and Disability, explained that the end of the year is often seen as a time of transition. “The end of the year is a stage that is usually associated with the end of a cycle. We have the start of vacations and celebrations. It can also be an introspective moment that can generate analysis of many situations in adolescence: the change of year, the beginning or end of a stage, experiences throughout these months. The different situations experienced can trigger some mental health problems that are important to address in a timely and appropriate manner,” he said.
Yécora noted that adults often view adolescents from their own perspective, sometimes failing to recognize the unique challenges young people face. “For many years, adults have considered adolescents from an adult viewpoint and interpreted that our generation was better, when in reality it is a very dynamic stage of life where many things happen for the first time—not only physiological or biological but also experiential, such as first relationships, arguments, new friends and different moments. These contribute to an integral development with many situations that may put them at risk while seeking participation and acceptance among peers,” he added.
He also pointed out communication barriers between adults and adolescents. “Many times we look at adolescents thinking they are wrong or what they propose is mistaken. We do not realize that when faced with a serious problem, one in three adolescents does not talk to anyone; this means they do not see us as reference points to turn to or share their problems with. It is up to us as adults to find ways to understand their logic for closer and more empathetic communication so we can accompany them and be closer,” Yécora emphasized.
Yécora reminded families that feelings such as distress, anxiety, irritability, fears or worries during periods of change are normal. “It is possible to experience all this without it being a mental health disorder. However, if we cannot talk about it or have no one who listens to us, it can worsen—leading us to feel alone and not ask for help. That’s why being present is so important,” he said.
On seeking help, Yécora stated: “From conception until our last day as human beings we need others to live. Mental health is built collectively; it’s impossible to think of ourselves alone or isolated in the world—we go through life through contact with others.” He continued: “Asking for help is not an act of weakness—it’s great courage. First because it reduces the intensity of what someone feels and reminds them they’re not alone. If we detect any risk situation requiring specialized attention there are numerous health services available.”
He encouraged consulting professionals if usual activities stop bringing enjoyment; if there’s excessive anger; unusual reactions; neglect in eating habits, hygiene or sleep; substance use; or changes in routines: “It’s important to seek advice—not necessarily because there’s a mental health problem but because addressing symptoms early reduces discomfort and prevents illness.”
Regarding prevention tools for mental health issues among youth Yécora said: “The main preventive tools we have are listening and giving a hug. For adolescents especially adults should strive to become emotional role models—listening more than talking—finding time just to ask how they’re doing—to let them know we care—valuing achievements rather than focusing on advice which may feel like demands.” This approach helps foster more empathetic dialogue.
On substance use during festivities—a period often marked by increased consumption—Yécora advised caution: “In our culture consumption is understood as passage into adulthood—the holidays are linked with higher consumption so strategies must focus on reducing risks—avoiding dangerous situations since the goal is enjoyment—not regretting accidents related to consumption such as traffic incidents unintended pregnancies fights.” He recommended staying hydrated sleeping well avoiding excesses.
Finally addressing societal pressures around feeling good at year-end Yécora concluded: “Not everything goes as planned—that’s part of life—no one wins more than loses—the pressure for constant success exposes us when things don’t work out—we must remember learning comes from doing things—it gives us experience—we’re not alone—we don’t have solve everything—and being accompanied increases chances resolving each situation.”
