The Orihuela City Council organized an institutional event to commemorate World Mental Health Day, celebrated on October 10th. The main objective was to raise citizen awareness about the importance of emotional well-being, highlight the difficulties faced by people with mental health problems, and call for accessible care tailored to their needs.
The event, presided over by the Councillor for Health, Irene Celdrán, was attended by council members, representatives of associations, sector professionals, and citizens. It was emphasized that mental health is an essential part of overall health and should be a year-round priority, stressing the need to eliminate prejudices, facilitate access to resources, and promote an inclusive society.
Irene Celdrán highlighted the often invisible emotional suffering and appealed to collective sensitivity to pay attention to those in need. "I want to ask you to learn to look beyond a smile, to listen beyond words, and to be close to those who need us," she expressed, advocating for the normalization of conversations about mental health and the creation of trusting environments.
The municipal official recalled that behind every mental health problem there is a life and a family that deserves understanding and respect. She also thanked the work of healthcare professionals, social workers, associations, and families who support affected individuals. "Hopefully, we will learn to ask more often how you are and, above all, to stay and listen to the answer," she stated.
Subsequently, Gertrudis Marcos, president of ADIEM, and Fernando Serna, psychologist at ADIEM, read the manifesto prepared for the occasion, under the slogan "Haz match con tu salud mental" (Make a match with your mental health). The document emphasizes connecting with one's own emotions, recognizing personal needs, and seeking help resources.
The manifesto stressed the importance of caring for mental health, having tools to face difficulties, receiving support, and developing a dignified life. Special attention was given to the mental health of young people, but it was also highlighted that it can affect anyone, regardless of age or circumstances. The influence of loneliness, uncertainty, or economic difficulties on emotional well-being was also warned against.
The need to create spaces for listening and understanding was defended, addressing mental health from a broad perspective that includes social and personal aspects. A central message was to combat stigma, reminding that having a mental health problem does not define a person or limit their capabilities or rights.
Fernando Serna emphasized that connecting with mental health should translate into clear information, seeking help without fear, and accessible, continuous care. Difficulties in accessing professionals and resources, as well as a lack of continuity between services, were pointed out as factors that exacerbate the vulnerability of many people.
The manifesto called for strengthening public mental health services, greater coordination between health, social, and associative services, and promoting prevention and early detection, especially in educational centers. Attention based on respect for human rights and the participation of affected individuals was also advocated.
Finally, the participation of the Orihuela City Council and the work of entities dedicated to promoting mental health were acknowledged. It was recalled that mental health care requires listening, sufficient resources, real support, and commitments to improve people's lives, building an Orihuela that accompanies and includes everyone.
