MENTAL HEALTH MATRICULATION IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF UNA: AN EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

This experience report describes a mental health matrixing intervention carried out in the municipality of Una (BA), between March and August 2025, with the objective of strengthening the integration between Primary Health Care (PHC) and the Psychosocial Care Network (PSA). Matrixing is a collaborative work process between PHC and specialized care professionals, aiming to improve mental health care through the sharing of knowledge, the construction of Individual Therapeutic Projects (ITPs), and the use of instruments such as interconsultation, joint consultation, and shared home visits. In the local context, a significant unmet demand for psychology and psychiatry services was identified, highlighting weaknesses in the care network and gaps in the technical knowledge of PHC professionals. To address these challenges, six training sessions were held with Family Health Strategy (FHS) teams, in which concepts, practices, and tools of matrix support were discussed, promoting interprofessional exchanges and reflection on expanded clinical practice. The results indicated advances in understanding and articulation between knowledge areas, strengthening the capacity to manage cases of psychological distress in primary health care and the collective construction of therapeutic strategies. Even so, difficulties were observed regarding network integration, insufficient resources, and the need for continuing education to consolidate collaborative practices. It is concluded that matrix support proved to be a promising strategy to improve mental health care, increase the effectiveness of primary health care, and promote a comprehensive care model. The continuity of actions, monitoring of results, and strengthening of professional competencies are essential for the sustainability of the implemented changes.