Desconecta

Desconecta is the leader in adolescent mental health in Spain. Founded in 2012 by psychologist Marc Masip, it supports young people aged 10 to 19 and their families with issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, other behavioural disorders, emotional distress and autism spectrum disorders, without interrupting their academic development.

Its value proposition lies in a comprehensive therapeutic-educational model that combines therapeutic intervention, family support and educational continuity through its Therapeutic Classroom (Aula Terapéutica) and Day Hospital, with centres in Madrid, Barcelona and Málaga.

Problem

More than half of young people in Spain report having experienced a mental health problem in the last year, and only half of them receive adequate treatment. The problem starts early: 50% of adult mental disorders begin before the age of 14 and 75% before 18. If not treated in time, these problems tend to worsen and affect school performance, social relationships and family life.

On top of this, there is a clear lack of specialised care: Spain has fewer psychologists and psychiatrists per capita than the European average, the public system has waiting times of 3 to 6 months for a psychology appointment, and there are not enough specialised units for children and adolescents.

Solution

Desconecta offers a multidisciplinary approach that addresses the patient's whole environment: individual and group therapy in small groups organised by age and condition, family therapy, and an academic programme that allows adolescents to keep studying while in treatment. It also works on prevention and early detection through educational workshops for young people and families.

Impact

Its impact goals are clear: achieving the comprehensive rehabilitation of each adolescent –emotional, academic, family and social– and broadening access to quality therapy by expanding the model to the areas with the greatest need and making it more accessible to lower-income families. Since its inception, more than 3,200 adolescents and their families have benefited from its programmes, with success rates above 95%.

Healthcare and well-being
Mental health care for adolescents and young people

Year
2026