For the first time in its history, the Chilean government has launched a nationwide mental health campaign titled “Stigmatizing Closes Doors. Let’s Open the Conversation on Mental Health.” Led by the Ministry of Health, this groundbreaking initiative aims to transform the country’s culture of silence around mental health into one of dialogue and support. The campaign seeks to reduce stigma – defined as attributing negative characteristics to people with mental health problems or diagnoses – and create safe spaces in families, workplaces, and educational settings where people can openly discuss their feelings without fear of judgment or ridicule.

One of the campaign’s key messages directly addresses problematic drinking patterns. In a video from the campaign, a conversation illustrates how people often minimize alcohol-related concerns: “You know I went out again last night, buddy, and I started drinking again, and when I start drinking I can’t stop.” The response – “But don’t drink anymore, it’s a matter of willpower” – exemplifies exactly what the campaign warns against. The video concludes with the message: “Downplaying closes doors. Let’s open the conversation about mental health. Let’s eliminate stigma and discrimination.” This example demonstrates how dismissive responses prevent people from seeking help and perpetuate harmful silence around substance use issues.

The campaign coincides with significant progress in Chile’s mental health infrastructure, including the 24/7 suicide prevention hotline *4141 and a historic expansion of public mental health services serving over one million people currently in treatment. While suicide rates have remained stable with a slight decrease over the past three years, placing Chile below the regional average, the Ministry of Health emphasizes that the real challenge lies in changing how society responds to mental health concerns, encouraging listening without judgment and supporting without trivializing the struggles people face.

Find more from the Ministerio de Salud Gobierno de Chile (Chile, October 2025)