MENTAL HEALTH IN MOBILE PRE-HOSPITAL CARE IN BRAZIL: CHALLENGES AND POSSIBILITIES OF HUMANIZED ASSISTANCE: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Psychiatric reform in Brazil is a complex social process, comprised of numerous stakeholders. It began in the late 1970s with the establishment of psychiatric hospitals as the only treatment option, facilitating the chronicity and exclusion of mentally ill patients. It also stemmed from the efforts of social movements for the rights of psychiatric patients. However, it was only in 2001 that Law No. 10,216 was enacted in the country. The law provides for the protection and rights of people affected by mental disorders, regardless of race, financial situation, age, nationality, or severity. The right to respectful and humane access to all healthcare services is guaranteed, including the Mobile Emergency Service (SAMU). However, studies show that providing care for mental crises poses a major challenge to emergency services and presents discrepancies in referrals and difficulties in consolidating SAMU's work in conjunction with the Brazilian Psychiatric Reform. SAMU requires objectivity, and mental health requires subjectivity, which is not possible in emergency situations. Therefore, SAMU's services face a variety of challenges. When it comes to psychiatric emergencies, professional training, combined with welcoming support, are important structural elements in delivering the service.