Cien Saude Colet. 2026 Mar;31(3):e11352024. doi: 10.1590/1413-81232026313.11352024. Epub 2025 Apr 15.
ABSTRACT
The article discusses the importance of mental health in Primary Health Care (PHC), focusing on the perspective of nurses, in a context of demographic and epidemiological transition in Brazil. It highlights the relevance of understanding the social determination of health and intersectionality to address the mental health needs of patients with chronic diseases, particularly elderly people with systemic arterial hypertension. This is a qualitative field study conducted in five Brazilian cities, using the theoretical-methodological framework of the Theory of Social Representations. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews and focus groups. The results revealed three thematic cores: 1) the impacts of neoliberal logic on work processes in PHC; 2) health training and institutional responsibility; and 3) invisible barriers: hidden challenges in building networks in PHC. The analysis of the results points to the need to reformulate health work processes to ensure equity and effective coverage in mental health in PHC. In the context of neoliberal policies, the transformation of the SUS faces significant challenges, requiring a critical approach to overcome disparities and promote universal access to mental health within PHC.
PMID:42018904 | DOI:10.1590/1413-81232026313.11352024