Comprehensive care perspectives for the “mentally ill offender” in the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS)

Abstract

Introduction: Ensuring the rights of people with mental disorders remains a challenge within the scope of public policies. This scenario becomes even more complex when it involves offenders. The reality of care for the so-called “mentally ill offender” reveals a historical path marked by the gradual rupture of traditional psychiatric paradigms, allowing for progressive advances in actions aimed at this population. Objective: To map the support offered to people with mental disorders under security measures within Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS) and to understand how the conception of RAPS workers regarding deprivation of liberty influences the mental health care offered to this population. Method: An exploratory, descriptive, and qualitative study conducted through interviews with RAPS professionals and thematic analysis of the data. Results: The findings were discussed across three units of meaning and reveal the historical recurrence of the stigma of dangerousness, the absence of shared development of Singular Therapeutic Projects (PTS) among the network’s facilities, and the infrequency of intersectoral meetings to discuss cases, indicating weaknesses in network-based work. Nevertheless, participants described a type of care that neither blames nor stigmatizes individuals with mental disorders who have committed offenses. Conclusion: Care based on freedom is essential, even in the context of a RAPS weakened by structural limitations and shortages of human and material resources. The articulation between health and justice sectors, through dialogue and intersectoral actions, is a fundamental element for providing humane and welcoming care to the “mentally ill offender,” aiming at rehabilitation and social reintegration.