Listening and offering a hug are considered key preventive measures in addressing depression, according to health officials in Jujuy. These actions can help individuals express their feelings, which not only reduces the intensity of what they experience but also opens up opportunities for timely professional support.
In recognition of World Depression Response Day on January 13, the Ministry of Health of Jujuy has made available a contact guide for the Mental Health Network. This resource allows community members to reach mental health professionals through local health centers, hospitals, or by phone and online services. The ministry emphasizes the importance of simple gestures such as listening, supporting, being present, hugging, and accompanying those who may be struggling with depression.
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions globally. Each year about 280 million people worldwide are affected by depression. In Jujuy, it is the fourth leading cause for outpatient mental health consultations and ranks third among reasons for hospitalization.
Rodrigo Aladzeme from the Secretariat of Mental Health, Addictions and Disability explained: “One of the strongest myths surrounding this illness is thinking that it is a matter of willpower or motivation or that it can be resolved by insisting that someone ‘cheer up.’ In reality, depression has a multifactorial origin involving biological, psychological and social aspects. In this sense, family and relationships are fundamental pillars in addressing and treating depression by providing support—which is different from applying pressure.”
Some signs that may indicate depression include persistent mood disturbances with pessimism or negativity; difficulty enjoying activities; lack of expectations or solutions; feelings of emptiness or worthlessness; deep physical and mental fatigue; trouble starting daily activities; lack of initiative; extreme emotional reactions; sleep disturbances; and loss of appetite. Aladzeme noted: “This set of symptoms affects social, work-related and academic functioning and may indicate we are facing a depressive episode.”
Anyone can experience depressive states at various life stages—often triggered by significant events such as bereavement, separation, job loss or disappointment at school or work, financial difficulties, adolescence, parenthood or retirement. Support from others plays an important role during these times by listening and being present. However, if someone remains unable to feel emotions or continues to deteriorate emotionally over time, seeking professional help becomes essential.
There is no single type of depression—it can be treated and overcome with appropriate intervention. Treatment duration varies between six months to five years depending on complexity and how early care begins. Early intervention typically leads to better outcomes.
Jujuy offers several free resources for those seeking help:
– A 24-hour helpline (0800 888 4767) for mental health support.
– Emergency services via SAME 107.
– Digital health assistance available Monday through Friday.
– Continuous service at multiple hospitals including Hospital Pablo Soria.
– Local centers across the province accessible through an online directory (http://www.msaludjujuy.gov.ar:8022/CartasServicioWeb/Inicio).
Additional support can be found at organizations such as El Umbral in San Salvador de Jujuy (Belgrano N° 1205), Fundación Vida (WhatsApp: 388-4078233), Asociación Civil Apostando a la Vida (Avenida 19 de Abril 943), as well as municipal departments dedicated to mental health.
Aladzeme reiterated that accessing these resources promptly helps minimize long-term impacts on quality of life.
