Perceptions of Family Health Strategy Professionals About People with Mental Disorders

Background: The work of professionals in the Family Health Strategy, which is a part of primary health care in Brazil, is essential for the inclusion and support of people with mental disorders. These professionals' perceptions of individuals with psychiatric diagnoses can directly influence the quality and effectiveness of the care provided. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore and understand the perceptions of professionals who work in the Family Health Strategy about people with mental disorders. Methods: A qualitative study was carried out through individual interviews with different health professionals from July to September 2021 in a municipality in the state of S & atilde;o Paulo, Brazil. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Findings showed the existence of a concept of people with mental disorders based on the biomedical paradigm, and they experienced limitations arising from the disease that caused restrictions of opportunities, even though they had the capacity to live socially. Conclusions: It is necessary to invest in educational interventions to work on the existing stigma among primary health care professionals.