Mental Health of Youth a Priority, Says Lanzarote Politician
Yoné Caraballo, the candidate from Nueva Canarias-Bloque Canarista (NC-BC) for the Presidency of the Lanzarote Cabildo, has made a strong case for prioritising mental health issues among children and teenagers. Speaking about his vision for “Recovering Lanzarote,” Caraballo promised to ensure that “no child or young person in Lanzarote feels alone in their suffering, anxiety, or depression.”
He argues that mental health should not only be treated within health services but integrated into all levels of government policy. Caraballo believes the Cabildo should actively promote emotional well-being in the younger population, stating, “A society that emotionally neglects its children and teenagers is jeopardising its future. We cannot wait for problems to escalate; we must intervene earlier.”
To address these issues, Caraballo proposes an “Island Plan for Youth Emotional Well-being,” aimed at collaborating with the Canary Government and educational institutions. This plan would establish stable psychological support programmes in schools, enhance prevention of self-harm and suicidal behaviour, and create safe spaces for young people to speak out and seek help.
He also reiterated the need for a proposed “ICO” Emotional Support Chat, designed to be an easily accessible tool for young people in distress. “We can’t keep normalising the fact that our youth bear the weight of anxiety, bullying, and social pressure alone,” he added.
Caraballo envisions the Cabildo coordinating with local councils, schools, youth associations, and social groups to develop a comprehensive emotional support network across Lanzarote and La Graciosa.
He urged the Canary Government to establish a Mental Health Subunit in the Emergency Department of Dr. José Molina Orosa University Hospital to better serve young patients. This includes an increase in resources to reduce wait times and provide specialised and ongoing care for families.
“The health system cannot continue to overlook mental health,” he warned. “When a young person asks for help, every moment counts. Delays add further risks, and lacking resources means missed opportunities to prevent crises.”
Caraballo concludes by advocating for a more supportive community in Lanzarote, where every child and young person knows they have someone to turn to. “We want a Lanzarote where growing up isn’t a solo race, but a journey supported by a caring community,” he said.
