Bridging the Gap: Reimagining Colombia's Mental Health Policy for Suicide Prevention in Armenia, Colombia

Abstract

Introduction: This study analyzes the implementation of the Public Mental Health Policy in Armenia, Quindío, Colombia, with emphasis on the approach to suicide. Method: The research uses a qualitative methodology based on grounded theory, including content analysis and semi-structured interviews with nine key actors in the mental health system. Results: The results reveal significant challenges in three main areas: the integration of the medical model with community approaches, intersectorality, and epidemiological surveillance systems. A historical disconnect was identified between public health policies and community social psychology, which has hindered the effective adaptation of the General System of Social Security in Health (SGSS) to mental health needs. The lack of articulation between public and private institutions, along with the absence of an efficient network system, hinders the implementation of comprehensive strategies for suicide prevention. Furthermore, the importance of considering region-specific contextual factors in policy formulation and implementation was evident. Conclusions: There is an urgent need to foster dialogue between public health policies and community social psychology to develop more effective strategies in addressing suicide. The adoption of community approaches, improvement in intersectorality through Actor-Network Theory, and the implementation of community-based epidemiological surveillance systems are recommended.