Motivated by concern about complex social phenomena currently present in Las Tunas, such as gender-based violence and drug abuse, among others, the 103 Helpline is active from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to provide counseling to anyone requiring specialized support.

Las Tunas, Cuba.- Raydel Bejerado Balmaceda, a health promoter with extensive experience working with addictions and who has often taken on cases that arise through this approach, speaks with 26 about the objective resources that counseling now provides in Las Tunas.

“This line, which we have nationwide, initially emerged to address the issue of addiction and drug abuse, intending to provide guidance not only to users but also to their families. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we also focused on providing psychological support to those who were ill. Later, it became a tripartite line because we wanted to include the topic of gender-based violence,” the psychologist says.

“At one point, we had technical problems and it was unavailable, but we have managed to reestablish contact so that anyone can call anonymously and confidentially, and a specialist dedicated to helping them will always answer. We expect it to operate 24 hours a day soon."

“We want the public to know that they can call 103 to seek advice on any issue. From there, the specialist who assists them will refer them to which institution, appointment, and specialty to attend. This contact also makes it possible to schedule a day for a specific specialist to see them.”

Bejerano Balmaceda reiterates that this line of work stems from a national need and the intention of public policies to curb scourges that jeopardize social interactions and their proper functioning. In Las Tunas, a highly trained staff backs this supportive endeavor.