Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo — Mental health specialists are calling for greater awareness and access to psychological care as depression and suicide rates rise in the region.
Psychologist Aldo Jonathan Dzib Cab, a clinical child specialist, explained that depression is often misunderstood as mere sadness but is a serious disorder that can disrupt personal, family, school, and work life, sometimes leading to suicide if untreated.
“The key difference is the duration and impact of symptoms,” Dzib said. “For a diagnosis, symptoms must persist for at least two consecutive weeks and cause significant changes in daily functioning.”
Common signs include difficulty concentrating, trouble making decisions, negative thoughts about oneself or the future, and social withdrawal. Depression is categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on how much it impairs daily activities.
Mild depression allows most activities to continue, while moderate symptoms significantly interfere with school, work, and relationships. Severe depression can make daily tasks impossible and may include suicidal thoughts requiring specialized treatment and medication.
Dzib noted that depression results from a mix of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, and that while anyone can develop it, statistics show higher rates among men and young adults. He also linked alcohol abuse to depression, calling it a desperate attempt to escape emotional pain.
Suicide cases on the rise
Esteban García, head of the Mental Health Program for Health Jurisdiction 03 in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, reported that five suicides have been recorded in the municipality so far in 2026. In all of 2025, the total was nine.
García emphasized that suicide is not a standalone disorder but a symptom of underlying mental health conditions. He outlined three stages: suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and completed suicide. He stressed that all warning signs warrant immediate professional attention.
“If there is no family dialogue, no support networks, and no access to free health services, some people may turn to addictions or other risky behaviors,” García said.
Authorities have activated postvention protocols in schools to support students, teachers, and families after recent incidents, including a suicide in the community of Solferino.
Breaking stigma
Both experts urged the public to view mental health care as a sign of strength. “Depression is not a weakness or lack of willpower. It is a health problem that can be treated and overcome if detected early,” Dzib said.
The municipality has 32 medical units offering psychosocial care. While no local psychiatrist is available, psychologists conduct assessments and refer severe cases to specialists in Chetumal. García noted that more residents are seeking help, but awareness campaigns need to expand.
“Talking about mental health, asking for help, and seeing a specialist should no longer be seen as a sign of weakness,” García said. “Early care can prevent greater risks and improve well-being for individuals, families, and the community.”
