Assistência às pessoas em sofrimento mental em Sergipe

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Mental health has emerged as a global issue of great relevance, affecting millions of people regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status. The World Health Organization (WHO) had already pointed out that disorders such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia were among the leading causes of disability worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened this scenario, intensifying social isolation, stress, and the demand for mental health services. In Brazil, challenges were even more evident, with an overloaded health system and limited access to specialized care. In Sergipe, the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS) represented the main strategy of the Unified Health System (SUS) for mental health care, but its implementation faced obstacles such as an insufficient number of Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS), a shortage of qualified professionals, and difficulties in access in inland municipalities. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the mental health care provided to people with mental disorders in Sergipe, using the indicators proposed by the WHO in the document Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2030. METHOD: The study adopted a quantitative and qualitative approach, based on secondary data obtained from official sources (Ministry of Health, State Health Secretariat, DATASUS, IBGE, and WHO), along with a critical analysis of the availability and reliability of information on mental health services in the state. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The analysis showed that Sergipe did not achieve the WHO targets for mental health, with most indicators classified as non-existent or only partially met. The findings included the absence of specific state policies, an insufficient number of CAPS, lack of therapeutic residences, limited prevention programs, and failures in the integration of the psychosocial care network. Only isolated advances were identified, falling short of fully meeting international recommendations. CONCLUSION: Despite some progress in the implementation of mental health policies, Sergipe has not yet fully complied with WHO recommendations, highlighting the need for continuous investments, expanded coverage, and structured strategies for mental health promotion and prevention.