EQUITABLE ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE WITH PSYCHOTROPIC MEDICINES IN PRISONAL ENVIRONMENTS

Abstract

Equitable access to mental health care with psychotropic medications in prison settings is a critical issue that impacts the quality of life and well-being of inmates. Faced with this reality, this article aims to discuss the barriers to equitable access, the impacts of the use of psychotropic drugs and possible solutions to improve the mental health of detainees. The methodology used was the theoretical essay, which consisted of an analysis and critical synthesis of studies on the prison environment, the learning process and the use of psychotropic drugs in this context. In this sense, it is concluded that factors such as stigmatization, lack of financial resources and racial discrimination can adversely influence the access of detainees to pharmacological treatments. Furthermore, the lack of adequate training for health professionals within the prison system can result in inadequate diagnoses or undertreatment. In analyzing the implications of these barriers, we highlight the need for reforms in prison health policies. Likewise, the promotion of training for health professionals, as well as the adequate allocation of resources for pharmacological treatments, are fundamental measures.