For 2024, the approved budget for mental health totals 3,819 million pesos, although it represents an increase of 7.3% compared to last year, this is insufficient to close the gap that exists compared to international recommendations. Therefore, Mexico would need to triple its current investment to reach optimal levels of care, the research center considered.
In addition, the resources used in 2023 present a reduction of 7.9% compared to 2016, highlighted the CIEP prior to October 10, World Mental Health Day.
For the presentation of the Economic Package, it will be necessary to pay attention to what percentage will be allocated to this concept, since the 2024-2030 Nation Project includes the National Mental Health Program as one of its key initiatives, which aims to ensure that all people have access to mental health care with a focus on young people, older adults and victims of violence. In addition to creating healthy environments in schools, homes and communities, for mental well-being from childhood.
Mental health is a fundamental pillar in the life of each person and in the well-being of a community as a whole. A strategic investment with a significant increase could reduce the economic and social costs of mental disorders. It is imperative that public policies prioritize mental health as a crucial issue for the well-being of the entire population.
He highlighted that resources for mental health in 2024 are divided between the National Commission for Mental Health and Addictions (CONASAMA), created in 2023, with 62% of the budget; the Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz National Institute of Psychiatry with 14%; and the Youth Integration Centers, AC, with 24%. It should be noted that the budget of CONASAMA, after its consolidation in 2023, increased 130%, while that of the Youth Integration Centers, AC increased by 1.5%, and that of the National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente presented a reduction of 1.9%.
