According to the Ministry of Health, 44.7% of children in Colombia show signs of mental health conditions. This figure includes children ages 6 to 11, adolescents ages 12 to 16, and young people ages 17 to 24. Globally, the number rises to 168 million minors affected.

In addition, suicide statistics are alarming. In 2023, there were 230 suicides among children and adolescents in Colombia, and in the first quarter of 2024 alone, this number has already reached 140. Among the main factors contributing to these mental health issues are domestic violence, school bullying, psychoactive substance use, and the armed conflict in rural areas, which mainly affect school-age youth.

In the city of Manizales, between 15 and 20 suicide attempts per month have been reported among the school population during the year 2024 so far. Furthermore, 7 out of 10 suicides in Manizales through May correspond to students in primary, secondary, and high school education.

The situation is concerning, as mental health conditions are becoming increasingly recurrent among children and adolescents nationwide. It is imperative that the education system and the relevant authorities take action to address this serious issue.