Saúde mental e Serviço Social: reflexões acerca de suas particularidades

Abstract

This paper aimed to analyze the relationship between mental illnesses, Psychiatric Reformation, the National Mental Health Policy, the social protection net, and the importance of Social Service as an articulator of public policies. By utilizing the bibliographic and documental analysis, it was possible to comprehend the significance of the Psychiatric Reformation in Brazil, which substituted the asylum model for a network of community and integrated mental health services, promoting social inclusion and user participation. It was also possible to learn about the construction of the National Mental Health Policy created to guarantee universal and equal access to mental health services, reduce stigma and social exclusion and promote citizenship. In this context, the social protection network has been essential for expanding access to mental health treatment, creating new community and substitute services. This research also intended to relate the performance of the Social Service professional as fundamentais for guaranteeing users' rights and constructing more humanized and integral care. Social workers can act from patient assessment and follow-up to articulation with the health and social assistance services network, seeking to guarantee access to social rights and the social inclusion of users. However, there are still challenges to be faced, such as the need to expand the network of community services, guarantee the quality of care with greater and better public investments, and combat the stigmatization of people with mental disorders. To face such challenges, it is fundamental that there is a practical commitment of public policies and society in general, aiming at promoting mental health as a fundamental human right and the full inclusion of these individuals in society.