Madrid Allocates One Million Euros for Child and Youth Mental Health and Addictions

The Community of Madrid will invest in 2026 in prevention and mental health promotion programs for young people and adolescents.

Generic image of a young person looking at a smartphone in a school setting, symbolizing mental health and addiction challenges.
IA

Generic image of a young person looking at a smartphone in a school setting, symbolizing mental health and addiction challenges.

The Community of Madrid has approved an investment of one million euros for the year 2026, aimed at strengthening mental health promotion and addiction prevention among children and adolescents in the region.

This allocation, approved by the Governing Council, is part of the Strategic Plan for Subsidies of the Ministry of Health. The aid package is specifically designed to support associations and other non-profit organizations that encourage youth participation in such initiatives.
In recent years, the Mental Health services of the Ministry of Health and Public Health surveillance systems have observed a significant increase in anxiety disorders, depressive symptoms, and emotional regulation difficulties within this demographic group.

"These programs contribute to improving this situation, by allowing recipients to more effectively face certain circumstances in school, family, and social environments thanks to their participation in these initiatives funded by the Community of Madrid."

the regional Executive
A recent report, the Survey on Drug Use in Secondary Education in Spain (ESTUDES 2025), highlights the growing relevance of behavioral addictions. Among these, the problematic use of the internet, video games, social networks, and gambling are emphasized.
However, the same study also reveals a decrease in the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis among the population aged 14 to 18. The decline in cannabis consumption is particularly notable, marking a record low compared to data from 2023.