The 18th World Congress of the World Association for Infant Mental Health (WAIMH) commenced on July 15th in Dublin, Ireland, bringing together experts and policymakers to address critical issues in child mental health. Among the distinguished speakers was Gabriela de Bukele, the First Lady of the Republic of El Salvador, who showcased her country’s commitment to improving the mental well-being of its young population.
The congress, organized by the World Association for Infant Mental Health and the Scientific Program Committee, provided an international platform for sharing innovative approaches and best practices to promote mental health among infants and children.
During her keynote speech, First Lady Gabriela de Bukele emphasized the significance of nurturing good mental health in the new generations of Salvadorans. She shed light on the enduring impact of the country’s history, which included a devastating civil war and decades of violence perpetrated by gangs, resulting in broken family and community bonds.
«We envision infants and children who exude happiness, affection, and resilience. We want them to feel free to explore the world, express themselves, and learn to manage their emotions effectively. It is essential for them to develop their first socio-emotional connections from the moment they are in their mother’s womb, surrounded by the love and care of their families,» expressed the First Lady passionately.
El Salvador’s efforts in addressing mental health issues among its young population have seen positive developments in recent years. The government has launched various programs and initiatives to support children’s mental well-being, understanding the crucial role it plays in their overall development and future prospects.
The First Lady’s presence at the world congress exemplified the nation’s commitment to learning from global expertise and exchanging knowledge on best practices in the field of child mental health. Her advocacy for fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for children received praise from attendees and experts alike.
The 18th WAIMH Congress serves as a significant milestone in addressing the mental health challenges faced by infants and children worldwide. By sharing experiences and insights, experts and policymakers aim to pave the way for a brighter and healthier future for the world’s youngest citizens.
As the congress continues until July 19th, participants anticipate further collaborations and exchange of ideas that will contribute to creating a more inclusive and mentally healthy world for children, irrespective of their backgrounds or circumstances.
In conclusion, the dedication of the First Lady of El Salvador to promote the mental well-being of the country’s children shines a light on the importance of addressing this critical issue globally. As the congress progresses, the hope is that the knowledge shared and lessons learned will leave a lasting impact on the lives of young children, fostering a generation that is emotionally resilient and ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.