22nd International Congress of Youth Integration Centers (CIJ)

The 22nd International Congress of Youth Integration Centers (CIJ), convened under the theme “Environment and Mental Health”, brought together authorities, specialists, and international representatives to examine the interrelationship between environmental conditions and psychological well-being.

The Congress was honored by the presence of the Governor of Guerrero, Evelyn Salgado Pineda, and the Mayor of Acapulco, Abelina López Rodríguez. Both emphasized the imperative of positioning mental health as a priority within public policy, particularly in communities of young people and in contexts marked by environmental and social challenges. Also participating was Francisco José Gutiérrez, National Commissioner of the National Commission on Mental Health and Addictions (CONASAMA), who underscored the importance of developing coordinated strategies that integrate prevention, treatment, and the promotion of mental health into the national agenda. For her part, Carmen Fernández, Director General of CIJ/ISSUP Mexico, highlighted the role of the Congress as a platform for the exchange of strategies and the strengthening of care for individuals affected by addictions.

The academic program placed particular emphasis on international collaboration. Bárbara Correa, Regional Coordinator of ISSUP for Latin America, delivered a keynote address in which she highlighted the network-based initiatives promoted by the organization to enhance technical capacities and foster strategic alliances across the region.

Representatives of ISSUP National Chapters in Latin America also contributed to the proceedings, including Lorena Contreras (ISSUP Chile), Kathya Ramírez (ISSUP Guatemala), and Francisco Giménez together with Ma. Asunción Cabral (ISSUP Paraguay). Their presentations addressed experiences and best practices in prevention, treatment, and the integration of mental health into community-based approaches.

In addition, ISSUP National Chapter delegates participated in a guided visit to the CIJ Punta Diamante Inpatient Unit, where they were introduced to the treatment program implemented within the facility.

The deliberations of the Congress reaffirmed the need to build a shared regional vision, in which Latin American nations work in concert to address the challenges of mental health and addictions, in constant dialogue with the environmental and social determinants that shape the lives of young people.

Participants concurred that the achievements of the Congress—including strengthened commitments to international cooperation, the updating of specialized knowledge, and the consolidation of professional networks—represent a significant advance toward the innovation and sustainability of mental health strategies across Latin America.

In this regard, the 22nd International Congress of CIJ reaffirmed its position as a distinguished forum for scientific exchange and public policy dialogue, dedicated to sharing experiences, strengthening partnerships, and advancing the joint construction of solutions conducive to a healthier future.