Abstract

COHEN, Hugo. Mental health law in Argentina. Medicina (B. Aires) [online]. 2022, vol.82, n.5, pp.760-763. ISSN 0025-7680.

This article reviews important issues in relation to mental health in Argentina. In the first place, its situation in the country and the recommendations of the World Health Organization in reference to the fact that, in low- and middle-income countries, more than 75% of people with mental, neurological and substance use dis orders do not receive any treatment. Human resources in Argentina and its comparison with other countries are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on the need for trained primary care services in mental health and to improve the organization of health systems and services. Reference is also made to the Mental Health Law 26657 enacted in 2010, and the problems that have led to it not yet being fully implemented, the debate about this law, and the current claim of family members for the lack of response to their needs, and therefore the importance of its imple mentation. Finally, the effects of the COVID pandemic on the mental health of the general population are exposed.

Keywords : Mental health; Mental health law; Argentina.

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