Puebla’s CEPOSAMI: A Cutting-Edge Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Web Editor

September 18, 2025

a large group of people standing under a tent in front of a crowd of people in formal wear and ties,

Introduction to CEPOSAMI and its Significance

In a significant move towards prioritizing child and adolescent mental health, Puebla, Mexico, has inaugurated the Centro Estatal Poblano de Salud Mental Integral Para Niñas, Niños y Adolescentes (CEPOSAMI). This state-of-the-art facility, funded with an investment of 44 million pesos, is a model of advanced technology, comprehensive care, and an assistential policy.

Recognition of the Urgent Need for Mental Health Services

María del Rocío García Pérez, the president of the National System for Integrated Family Well-being (DIF), acknowledged Ceci Arellano, the president of the SEDIF Patronate, for her efforts in establishing CEPOSAMI. García Pérez highlighted the importance of addressing mental health as an urgent and priority issue.

Collaborative Efforts and Recognition

The successful collaboration between SEDIF and the federal government, led by Claudia Sheinbaum, has resulted in a model that will be replicated across other states. García Pérez expressed her gratitude to Governor Alejandro Armenta and Ceci Arellano for their commitment to this initiative, which sets a national example by recognizing the critical need for mental health services.

CEPOSAMI’s Impact and Specialized Care

Ceci Arellano, the president of the SEDIF Patronate, emphasized that CEPOSAMI is the “heart of the Puebla state government.” She encouraged parents to seek help at CEPOSAMI for their children exhibiting signs of isolation or distress, assuring them of specialized and root-cause-focused care.

Community Support and Donations

Gaby “La Bonita” Sánchez, the Secretary of Sport and Youth, generously donated 1.8 million pesos from her last boxing match as a world champion to support CEPOSAMI’s equipment. This contribution further strengthens the center’s capacity to serve the community.

Governor Armenta’s Vision for Mental Health

Governor Alejandro Armenta emphasized the importance of mental health, stating that many parents have sought help for their children struggling with isolation or crises post-pandemic. He affirmed that the administration’s actions will prioritize mental well-being, aligning with President Sheinbaum’s vision of peace at the core of Mexican humanism.

SEDIF Director’s Welcome and Center’s Impact

Juan Carlos Valdez Zayas, the SEDIF director, welcomed attendees to this pioneering model in Mexico. He described CEPOSAMI as more than just a building; it’s a “home of hope,” offering companionship and development opportunities for children and adolescents in Puebla.

Inauguration and Future Beneficiaries

The inauguration ceremony, led by Governor Armenta, President Arellano, and National DIF President García Pérez, showcased the center’s transformation from a former governor’s residence into an integral mental health facility. The project, completed between February 25 and September 6, 2025, covers 2,671.09 square meters and is expected to benefit an estimated 1,542,232 individuals.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is CEPOSAMI? CEPOSAMI is a cutting-edge center for child and adolescent mental health in Puebla, Mexico, offering comprehensive care and specialized services.
  • Who are the key figures involved in CEPOSAMI’s establishment? The project was made possible through the collaboration of María del Rocío García Pérez (National DIF President), Ceci Arellano (SEDIF Patronate President), and Governor Alejandro Armenta.
  • What makes CEPOSAMI unique? CEPOSAMI is a model of advanced technology, comprehensive care, and an assistential policy, setting a national example for mental health services.
  • How will CEPOSAMI benefit the community? The center aims to provide specialized care for children and adolescents struggling with mental health issues, ultimately improving the well-being of an estimated 1.54 million individuals in Puebla.