From manicomial logic to territorial logic: Impasses and challenges of psychosocial care

Abstract

The present study describes Psychosocial Care as a new paradigm currently operating within the Brazilian Psychiatric Reform, emphasising one of its key elements: the provision of mental care within a network and a territory. To this end, the social and cultural diversity of each territory is taken as fundamental aspects to enable appropriate care for mental suffering, overcoming exclusionist thinking patterns that recently have taken on worrying conservative manifestations, and eliminating misconceptions about what defines a mental health sufferer, as well as those who choose alternative ways of being.

Keywords: community health promotion; disability; epistemology; mental illness; public health psychology.