Panama is a country located in Central America with a growing focus on mental health. The government has recognized the importance of mental health and has taken steps to increase access to mental healthcare services. In this article, we will explore how mental health is viewed in Panama, as well as the resources available to English-speaking individuals or expats.
The View of Mental Health in Panama
In Panama, mental health is viewed as an important component of overall health and wellbeing. The government has recognized the importance of mental health and has made efforts to increase awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues. However, mental health services in Panama are still limited compared to other countries, and many individuals may not seek treatment due to cultural and social barriers.
In 2017, the Ministry of Health in Panama launched the National Mental Health Plan, which aims to improve access to mental healthcare services and reduce stigma surrounding mental health. The plan focuses on a community-based approach to mental health, with an emphasis on prevention, early intervention, and treatment.
Counselling or Therapy Services for English-speakers or Expats in Panama
If you are an English-speaking individual or an expat living in Panama and are in need of counselling or therapy services, there are some organizations that can help. Here are some of the major organizations that offer such services:
Instituto Panameño de la Salud Mental
The Instituto Panameño de la Salud Mental (IPSM) is a government organization that provides mental healthcare services to individuals in Panama. The organization offers individual and group therapy, as well as counselling for couples and families. Some of their therapists offer services in English. You can visit their website at www.ipsm.gob.pa.
Centro de Terapia Familiar
Centro de Terapia Familiar is a private mental healthcare clinic that provides counselling and therapy services to individuals in Panama City. The organization offers individual and group therapy, as well as counselling for couples and families. Some of their therapists offer services in English. You can visit their website at www.centrodeterapiafamiliar.com.
Life Management
Life Management is a private mental healthcare clinic that provides a range of services, including counselling and therapy, as well as psychiatric evaluation and medication management. The organization offers services in English and has locations throughout the country. You can visit their website at www.lifemanagement.com.pa.
Other Organizations Providing Mental Health Services in Panama
In addition to the organizations listed above, there are some other organizations that provide mental health services in Panama. Here are a few more:
Fundación Pro-Integración
Fundación Pro-Integración is a non-profit organization that provides support and advocacy services to individuals with disabilities and their families. The organization offers a range of resources, including counselling and support groups. Fundación Pro-Integración has locations throughout the country and offers support in Spanish and some in English. You can visit their website at www.fundacionprointegracion.org.
Fundación Ayuda en Acción
Fundación Ayuda en Acción is a non-profit organization that provides support and advocacy services to vulnerable populations in Panama, including children and women. The organization offers a range of resources, including counselling and support groups. Fundación Ayuda en Acción has locations throughout the country and offers support in Spanish and some in English. You can visit their website at www.ayudaenaccion.org.pa.
In conclusion, mental health is viewed as an important component of overall health and wellbeing in Panama. The government has recognized the importance of mental health and has taken steps to increase access to mental healthcare services. However, mental health services in Panama are still limited compared to other countries. If you are an English-speaking individual or an expat living in Panama and are in need of counselling or therapy services, there are some organizations that can help. The organizations listed above are just a few of the options available. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health issues, it is important to seek support and there are resources available to help you get the support you need.