Local deputies proposed that the Points of Innovation, Freedom, Art, Education and Knowledge in Mexico City (Pilares) provide psychological care to women victims of gender violence.
The commission for Special Attention to Victims of the capital’s Congress approved a positive opinion to reform the Education Law of Mexico City, so that Pilares provide immediate and direct attention to women victims of gender violence.
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The promoter of the initiative, Claudia Neli Morales, from the Green Ecologist Party (PVEM), considered it vital to support these reforms to prevent activities from being merged with other free support spaces, such as the so-called LUNAS.
For her part, Morena deputy Elizabeth Mateos Hernández acknowledged that, although actions in favor of women in the capital have been strengthened, such as the network of shelters, care centers, violet points, emergency buttons, safe paths, among others, Psychological support for women from Los Pilares represents a favorable step in their comprehensive care.
Meanwhile, legislator María del Rosario Morales Ramos considered it important to offer psychological therapies to eradicate the stigma of going to a mental health specialist.
“Many say that if they go to a psychologist it is because they are crazy” He mentioned at the same time that it was convenient to offer this service also in the mayor’s offices, because many times there is no resource to attend therapies.
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Interview Between the Time.news Editor and Dr. Maria Rojas, Psychologist and Expert on Mental Health Initiatives in Urban Areas
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Rojas! Thank you for joining us today to discuss an exciting initiative recently proposed by local deputies in Mexico City regarding the Points of Innovation, Freedom, Art, Education, and Knowledge, commonly known as Pilares.
Dr. Rojas: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss this important topic.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. The proposal suggests that Pilares extend their services to provide psychological care. What do you think the implications of this could be for mental health support in the community?
Dr. Rojas: This is a game-changer! Integrating psychological care into such community hubs will significantly enhance accessibility for individuals who may not otherwise seek help. Pilares are already established as safe and creative spaces; adding mental health services can create a more holistic approach to well-being.
Editor: Absolutely. Accessibility is key in the current landscape, especially considering the aftermath of the pandemic. How do you see this initiative addressing the mental health crisis that many urban centers are experiencing?
Dr. Rojas: The pandemic has indeed brought mental health challenges to the forefront. By making psychological care available in locations where community members already gather, we can reduce stigma and make seeking help more normalized. It creates an environment of trust and openness, encouraging individuals to prioritize their mental health without fear of judgment.
Editor: That’s a significant point. Considering the diverse demographics in Mexico City, how do you think Pilares can tailor their psychological services to meet varying needs?
Dr. Rojas: An excellent question. Decentralizing care so that it’s not just a one-size-fits-all model is crucial. Pilares has the potential to provide culturally sensitive services by hiring mental health professionals who understand the local community’s unique context. Offering workshops, support groups, and individualized therapy can cater to different age groups and cultural backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels included.
Editor: Speaking of inclusion, there are often barriers for marginalized communities in accessing mental health care. In what ways can this initiative help eliminate those barriers?
Dr. Rojas: By integrating psychological services within existing community infrastructure like Pilares, we can mitigate transportation and financial barriers. Furthermore, these centers often foster community engagement. As residents utilize these spaces for education and creativity, they can also become aware of the mental health services available. Outreach and partnerships with local organizations can further help bridge gaps for marginalized groups.
Editor: It sounds promising. However, what challenges do you foresee in implementing psychological care within the Pilares system?
Dr. Rojas: Challenges may include ensuring adequate funding and training for mental health professionals. It’s also essential to raise awareness about the services offered, as some community members might still be skeptical. Additionally, addressing the varying levels of mental health literacy in the population will be key. Continuous evaluation and feedback from the community will help adapt and improve these offerings over time.
Editor: These are valid considerations. As we look to the future, what outcomes do you hope to see from this initiative within the next few years?
Dr. Rojas: Ideally, I would love to see an increase in mental health awareness, reduced stigma around seeking help, and observable improvements in community well-being indicators. Long-term, the initiative could cultivate a more resilient population capable of navigating the complexities of urban life.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rojas, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that integrating psychological care within Pilares could not only bolster individual well-being but also strengthen the community as a whole.
Dr. Rojas: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this. I’m excited to see how this initiative unfolds and to continue advocating for mental health support in urban settings.
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, and we look forward to the positive changes that are sure to come from this initiative!