Tourism’s Impact on Mental Health and Community Dynamics in San Andrés

In the vibrant neighborhood of San Andrés, the pressures of tourism are becoming increasingly evident, raising important questions about the effects on residents’ mental health and the preservation of community identity. As the area experiences a surge in visitors, the local population grapples with the changes that accompany this influx, leading to a complex interplay between tourism and community well-being.

Building Stronger Community Connections

Fostering connections among neighbors and acquaintances is essential for nurturing a resilient community. These interactions not only cultivate a profound sense of belonging but also promote the stewardship of shared spaces and cultural traditions. Key venues such as libraries, public squares, and healthcare facilities serve as vital hubs where residents can engage, learn, and strengthen their bonds, even as the landscape of their neighborhood evolves due to tourism.

The Challenge of Preserving Identity Amidst Tourism

Situated at the gateway to Las Teresitas beach, San Andrés boasts a rich fishing heritage that is increasingly threatened by the rising tide of tourism. Local residents have noted a troubling trend: an increasing number of outsiders are renting homes for vacation purposes, which raises significant concerns about the erosion of the neighborhood’s unique identity. In response to these challenges, the Rayuela Association has launched a proactive initiative aimed at reinforcing community ties that have been strained by the growing presence of tourists utilizing holiday rental platforms.

Innovative Approaches to Social Infrastructure

The “Social Infrastructure: Palacios del Pueblo” initiative, developed by Rayuela in collaboration with the General Foundation of the University of La Laguna (FGULL) and backed by the Canary Government, seeks to delve into the intricate relationship between community belonging and emotional well-being. This project aims to analyze how human interactions in shared spaces can be positively influenced, particularly in light of the potential negative impacts on residents’ mental health if left unaddressed.

Implementation and Community Engagement Activities

Jonás González, the coordinator of Rayuela, revealed that the project officially commenced in early March 2025. The initial phase focused on understanding the detrimental effects of the absence of community networks on residents’ mental health. Following this, the project transitioned into organizing a series of community activities, including women’s meetings and participatory walks, which wrapped up on November 30. These activities were designed to encourage social interaction and foster a sense of community among residents.

Evaluating Mental Health Outcomes

As the project progresses, the results are currently under evaluation to assess whether the establishment of community networks has had a positive impact on mental health. González explained that the emotional well-being of residents was measured both before and after the intervention, and researchers are now investigating the extent to which outdoor socialization contributes to improved mental health outcomes. While the findings are still pending, similar community-building activities are anticipated to continue at least until February 2026, providing ongoing opportunities for residents to engage with one another.

A Blueprint for Other Communities Facing Similar Issues

This initiative aspires to serve as a model that can be adapted to other neighborhoods grappling with comparable challenges. San Andrés was chosen for this project due to its strong foundation of community development, which is now threatened by the dual pressures of touristification and escalating holiday rental prices. The overarching goal is to ascertain whether the outcomes of this initiative indicate enhanced emotional well-being, thereby allowing for its replication in other areas experiencing high levels of tourist activity.

Residents’ Voices: Concerns and Community Needs

Local residents have voiced significant concerns regarding the pressures of urbanization, with a staggering 90 percent reporting increased costs for housing and essential services. Additionally, issues related to transportation and parking have exacerbated community distress. There is a prevailing sentiment of institutional neglect, with residents advocating for more green spaces, recreational areas for families and youth, and improvements in cleanliness and urban maintenance. Furthermore, there is a strong call for the reopening of public meeting spaces and a reduction in tourist overcrowding, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced social infrastructure to improve overall quality of life.

Key points

• The San Andrés neighborhood is experiencing pressures from increased tourism.
• Residents are concerned about the impact of holiday rentals on community identity.
• The Rayuela Association has launched a project to strengthen community ties.
• The “Social Infrastructure: Palacios del Pueblo” initiative aims to analyze community relationships.
• Initial studies focus on the mental health effects of community network absence.
• Residents report significant increases in housing and service costs.
• There is a demand for improved public spaces and reduced tourist overcrowding.