Psychologist’s Day in Argentina

Celebrating Psychologist’s Day: October 13 in Argentina

Every year on October 13, our friends in Argentina pop the corks on their mental health victory champagne to celebrate Psychologist’s Day! This fancy day commemorates the first National Meeting of Psychologists back in 1974—because who doesn’t love a good conference in beautiful Córdoba, right? This event, brought to you by the Confederation of Psychologists of the Argentine Republic (COPRA), was a game-changer for mental health professionals, kind of like discovering that the toilet paper roll goes over the top!

Let’s hear from Mr. Gerónimo Moisá, a member of the General Directorate of Mental Health and Addictions. You know, the kind of guy who probably can read minds, or at least your body language! He pointed out that this marks a whopping 50 years since that initial shindig in Córdoba. According to him, this meeting was like the first pep rally to get mental health professionals the recognition they deserve. You start screaming for attention when you want a bigger slice of the pie, and these professionals are making sure they don’t get left with the crust.

Moisá highlights that the role of psychologists has become rather critical, especially in times when most of us feel like we’re hanging onto life by a thread—definitely not the “wellness vibes” you see on Instagram. He mentioned that they provide us tools to tackle all those pesky subjective conditions we’re dealing with. Think of psychologists as the handy toolbox for tackling life’s emotional woodwork.

Now, let’s talk shop for a moment: what’s the magic wand that psychologists wield? It’s the word! That’s right, folks: words are their weapons of choice. Moisá put it well when he explained how verbalizing our anguish is like finding the lightswitch in a dark room—we can finally begin the healing process! I mean, who knew that just talking to someone could be a ticket to feeling less like a soggy potato?

It’s crucial to note that not all heroes wear capes. Some of them don a psychologist’s coat and navigate their way not just in cozy offices but also in schools, communities, and yes, even courtrooms! They’ve become the Swiss Army knife of mental health. Whether it’s tackling violence, suicidal tendencies, eating disorders, or addictions, these pros are getting their hands dirty for the greater good. Did you know last month was Suicide Prevention Month? That’s right! Over 400 psychologists rolled up their sleeves to provide support throughout the province. Thank goodness they don’t accept “emotional baggage” as an extra fee for their luggage!

And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, we’ve got the 135 telephone line—the superhero hotline for mental health care that runs 24/7! Moisá explained that this lifeline offers immediate support for those lost in emotional fog. If you call in, a team of warm and empathetic professionals is at the ready, like your best friend with a pint of ice cream when you’re feeling down. If you need a bit more than a chat, they’ll evaluate your situation and hook you up with a follow-up.

So, ladies and gentlemen, as we raise a glass today to Psychologist’s Day, let’s not just acknowledge the underlying issues in our lives but also the mental health warriors out there helping us navigate the murky waters of our emotional chaos. Here’s to words, warmth, and the dedicated souls who know that even the most heart-wrenching battles can begin with just a conversation. Cheers to our mental health champions!

Every October 13, Argentina celebrates Psychologist’s Day, commemorating the first National Meeting of Psychologists in 1974 in Córdoba. Promoted by the Confederation of Psychologists of the Argentine Republic (COPRA), this event was fundamental for the recognition of the rights of mental health professionals. Over the years, he has highlighted the importance of psychologists’ work in individual well-being, an increasingly crucial role in times of crisis.

Asked about this, Mr. Gerónimo Moisá, a member of the team of the General Directorate of Mental Health and Addictions, headed by psychiatrist Mónica González, pointed out that this year marks 50 years of the First National Meeting of Psychologists and Psychology students in Cordova. “This meeting arose as a demand from mental health professionals for recognition of their activity. The place occupied by the profession is of utmost importance in society, since it provides tools to address subjective conditions. In times of so much uncertainty and hopelessness, offering from psychology, even in the first consultation, spaces of containment for discomfort and anguish takes on fundamental value,” he highlighted.

Following this line, Moisá commented that the tools used by psychologists to accompany patients are varied and depend on the theoretical framework in which they are located. However, there is a fundamental tool: the word. “It is through words that we can process anguish and name certain discomforts, which allows us to begin a healing process,” he remarked.

Regarding the performance of his task, the graduate explained: “Over time, the matter has evolved. The practice of the psychologist has been adapting to our time, especially in terms of the insertion of the professional in different scenarios. Today, we not only work in offices, but also in schools, communities, territorial work and in the field of justice, where the insertion of psychologists is increasing. From our department, we are supporting different programs, such as Health Promotion and Prevention, specific programs on Violence, Suicide, Eating Disorders and an Addictions department that articulates actions around this topic, also carrying out preventive actions. Last month was Suicide Prevention Month, and we have carried out interventions throughout the province with a healthcare network of more than 400 psychologists within the provincial health system.”

Finally, he provided details about the 135 telephone line, which is available 24 hours a day and is attended by a team of professionals: “This line is used for crisis care and is essential to offer initial containment. If necessary, the patient’s situation is evaluated and an appointment is made for follow-up and treatment. In response to the current demands of the community, in hospitals and CAPS, a response is provided with warmth and empathy towards the patient, which is also very important to highlight.”

On this Psychologist’s Day it is essential to recognize the importance of their work in promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of the population.