Impact of Soaring Inflation on Mental Health in Argentina

 Buenos Aires, Argentina – Psychologist Jesica Bianchiotti, aged 35, vividly recalls a time when her patient sessions typically kicked off with casual discussions about weather updates or the outcomes of the latest soccer matches.

However, those days have faded into the past. Amidst Argentina grappling with one of its most severe economic crises in recent memory, therapy sessions now commence with dialogues revolving around politics, surging prices, and the profound challenges of meeting basic needs.

"Things have undergone substantial change. A majority of my patients arrive burdened with concerns tied to anxiety, fear, sleeping issues – all stemming from the pervasive uncertainty we all grapple with. It's the sheer impossibility of crafting long-term plans," remarked Bianchiotti, practicing in the greater Buenos Aires region.

Argentina, boasting the third-largest economy in Latin America, has grappled with prolonged financial instability due to political volatility and substantial international debt burdens.

In the current year, the country witnessed inflation soaring to unprecedented levels, surpassing 140 percent. Consequently, the value of Argentina's currency has sharply declined, making even basic grocery shopping a challenge for many.

Amidst this economic landscape, professionals like Bianchiotti have observed a surge in stress-related ailments. However, Argentina has devised a unique approach to confront this issue: boasting the highest ratio of psychologists per capita globally.

A 2015 study indicated an estimate of 194 psychologists for every 100,000 Argentinians, a rate more than three times higher than that of Finland and Norway, the closest contenders.

Psychotherapy has gained immense popularity, with certain practitioners such as Gabriel Rolon achieving celebrity status through appearances on television and radio programs. Notably, in 2022, psychology emerged as one of the most sought-after career paths at the University of Buenos Aires, second only to medicine.