Mental health is one of those realities of life that, despite being increasingly present in our society, still needs understanding, sensitivity, and, above all, less silence. Because behind every person going through a mental health problem there is a story, feelings, fears, and, on many occasions, a silent struggle that we do not always know how to recognize. A struggle that can be happening right next to us without us even imagining it.
On the occasion of "World Mental Health Day," celebrated every October 10, the Asociación Salud Mental El Cribo once again took to the streets to reach out to citizens, inform, and remind them that mental health should not be hidden or become a cause for shame. It was last Saturday when, from the early morning hours, Calle Real in Arrecife, next to the Casa Amarilla, became a meeting point for information, listening, and awareness.
At the forefront of this initiative was the president of the association, Rosa María González Betancort, accompanied by members of the board of directors, family members, and some of the people who are part of the entity. All shared the same purpose: to bring the reality of mental health closer to citizens, break down prejudices, and remind them that no one is completely immune to going through a situation that affects their emotional and psychological well-being.
Because it is worth stopping for a moment and reflecting: who can assure that they will never need help to face an emotional difficulty? Life circumstances, painful experiences, loneliness, everyday depression, or certain personal situations can affect our emotional balance. Mental health problems do not distinguish between ages, social conditions, or family circumstances. Therefore, understanding them is a collective responsibility.
An information table to break the silence.
Throughout the morning, representatives of El Cribo set up an information table from which they distributed brochures to pedestrians walking along one of the main commercial arteries of the Lanzarote capital. But that day was not just about delivering information. They also sought to open a door to dialogue on an issue that for too long has been surrounded by prejudice.
As a gesture of gratitude and closeness towards the people who stopped to talk with them, the members of the association gave a carnation. A small detail that accompanied a much deeper message; behind every mental health problem there is a person who deserves respect, understanding, and the opportunity to receive the help they need.
The initiative served to remember that information is an essential tool to combat stigma. Talking about mental health naturally, listening without judgment, and avoiding comments that can hurt are small gestures that contribute to building a more humane society. Because sometimes, a sincere conversation, a word of encouragement, or the willingness to listen can become the first step for someone to dare to ask for help.
More professionals and care that reaches those who need it.
At the end of the day, Rosa María González Betancort expressed her gratitude for the public's warm reception and for the interest shown by the people who approached to learn about the association's message. A response that highlights the importance of continuing to develop awareness initiatives and maintaining open spaces for information and encounters with citizens.
The president also emphasized the need for more professionals to adequately care for people experiencing mental health problems. This is a fundamental issue, as early detection, access to specialized care, and support during the recovery process can make a significant difference in the lives of those who need help.
In her message, she also had words specifically addressed to young people, whom she encouraged not to hide their problems or to face those that worry them alone. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, recognizing that something is not right and taking the step to talk to someone you trust requires courage. Family, professionals, and specialized associations can offer guidance and support when a person feels they cannot find a way out.
El Cribo, an open door to hope.
Founded in Lanzarote in 1992, the Asociación Salud Mental El Cribo has been linked to the reality of mental health on the island for more than three decades. Its presence on the street represents an invitation to look beyond appearances, to understand the difficulties of others, and to remember that recovery is not always an easy path, but that no one should have to walk it without support.
The association has its doors open on Gobernador García Hernández street, in the Valterra area, in Arrecife. People who need information or guidance can contact them by calling 928 80 45 45.
Approaching, asking, listening, and accompanying are ways to help. And so is learning to recognize that mental health deserves the same attention, the same respect, and the same sensitivity as any other aspect of our health.
Because no one is exempt from needing a helping hand.
Perhaps one of the greatest difficulties we still face as a society is understanding that we cannot always know what the person in front of us is going through. Someone may smile and yet be going through a difficult time. They may go to work every day, spend time with their friends, or attend to their family while fighting an internal battle they barely dare to express.
Therefore, we should not wait for suffering to be evident to show understanding. Nor should we judge someone going through a mental health problem, downplay what they feel, or tell them that everything can be solved simply by trying harder. Each person has their own circumstances and needs to be heard with respect, without prejudice and without labels.
The event promoted by El Cribo leaves us with a reflection that deserves to remain much longer than a specific date on the calendar: mental health is not an external issue, it should not be a cause for shame, and it cannot continue to be hidden behind silence.
Today it may be a family member, a friend, a coworker, or a neighbor who needs our understanding. Tomorrow, who knows, it could be us who need a word of encouragement, an outstretched hand, or the help of a professional.
May World Mental Health Day not be solely a day for distributing brochures and carnations, but an opportunity to change the way we look at others. Because no one should feel alone for suffering, no one should be ashamed to ask for help, and no person should find a closed door when they need to be heard.
Talking about mental health is talking about people, dignity, and hope. And building a healthier society often begins with something as simple and as necessary as learning to listen.
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