Public policies focused on adolescent mental health are a crucial front in building a healthier and fairer future. According to Bruno Garcia Redondo, prosecutor and professor at UERJ, addressing this issue requires integrated strategies across the sectors of health, education, social assistance, and justice, considering the multiple vulnerabilities faced by Brazilian youth.
The Importance of Adolescent Mental Health for Social Development
Promoting mental health during adolescence is essential for the full development of social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Adolescents who receive appropriate psychological support tend to perform better in school, are less involved in violence, and have greater autonomy in decision-making. Investing in this area is therefore a way to strengthen the country’s human capital and reduce social inequalities.
According to Bruno Garcia Redondo, neglecting adolescent mental health can have long-term consequences. Many mental disorders begin during youth and, if left untreated, can impair adult life in aspects such as employability, emotional relationships, and civic participation.
Challenges in Public Policies for Adolescent Mental Health
One of the main challenges faced by public policies for adolescent mental health is the fragmentation of actions. Many initiatives are isolated and disconnected, making it difficult to build a continuous and effective care network. The lack of coordination among schools, healthcare facilities, and social services weakens the support offered to youth experiencing psychological distress.
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♬ original sound – Bruno Garcia Redondo – Bruno Garcia Redondo
As Bruno Garcia Redondo points out, many health services lack child and adolescent psychologists or psychiatrists, which limits access to adequate care. There is also a significant gap in mental health services for vulnerable adolescents, such as those living in marginalized areas, indigenous communities, LGBTQIA+ youth, or those experiencing homelessness.
Progress and Proposals for Effective Public Policy
Despite the challenges, Brazil has legal frameworks and programs that can be strengthened. The Unified Health System (SUS) and the Unified Social Assistance System (SUAS) provide a foundation for integrated care actions, provided there is political will and well-directed resources. The Family Health Strategy and the Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS) also play important roles in adolescent care.
As Bruno Garcia Redondo highlights, investment is needed in active listening strategies within schools, ongoing training for education and health professionals, and awareness campaigns that involve families and communities. The use of technology, such as digital platforms for psychological support, can also expand the reach of public policies, especially among digitally connected youth.
Possible Paths to Strengthen Mental Health Care
For public policies on adolescent mental health to be effective, it is essential to adopt an intersectoral approach involving health, education, justice, culture, and sports. Creating safe spaces for connection, listening, and expression—such as youth centers, art workshops, and therapeutic groups—can help build bonds and strengthen young people’s self-esteem.
As Bruno Garcia Redondo emphasizes, strengthening social participation is also vital. Listening to adolescents, acknowledging their needs, and ensuring their presence in decision-making processes enhances the legitimacy of public actions. It is necessary to break away from the adult-centered logic that ignores youth voices and to build policies that recognize young people as rights-holders and agents of change.
Reflections for the Future of Adolescent Mental Health Policies
Addressing the challenges of adolescent mental health requires a collective commitment. Governments, institutions, professionals, and families must work together to ensure that no young person has their suffering ignored or silenced. More than just responding to crises, it is crucial to create welcoming, safe, and supportive environments that promote well-being.
As Bruno Garcia Redondo states, strengthening public policies for adolescent mental health is not just a matter of public health, but of social justice. Through this commitment, the country can nurture a healthier youth—one that is aware of their rights and able to contribute actively to society. Youth mental health must be a priority today so that the future can be more balanced and hopeful.
Author: Bergezin Vuc
