Empowering Mental Health: LHSS Colombia’s Multifaceted Approach

To address the mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic and mixed migration, the Local Health System Sustainability Project (LHSS) in Colombia collaborated with national and local health authorities. The program focused on three key environments: community, institutional, and educational levels. In the institutional setting, LHSS supported the Ministry of Health (MoH) and local health authorities by creating guidelines for teleconsultation lines and implementing a community-based rehabilitation strategy. At the community level, capacity-building activities were conducted for community members, emphasizing socio-emotional skills, coexistence, and conflict resolution. Playful methodologies, art, and communication were used to promote healthy environments. Finally, the program established interinstitutional alliances to enhance users’ access to health services and reduce the burden on providers. By addressing determinants of health and emphasizing mental well-being as a shared responsibility beyond health authorities, LHSS aims for a comprehensive impact.