Community Psychiatry in a Latin American Context: Perú as a Case Example

Background: Historical and conceptual issues related to community psychiatry as an innovative approach to clinical assistance across the world, precede a more or less detailed examination of its presence, role and current accomplishments in Latin America, particularly related to child and adolescent subpopulations. Information about transition processes from the traditional hospital-centered model to the community-based approach, applicable mental health policies, levels of implementation and quality of the available reports in different countries, are duly evaluated. Objectives: Within an understanding of the broader Latin American context, the paper describes the situation in Perú, a country considered representative of the Low and Middle Income (LMIC) group in the subcontinent. Methods: The situation in Perú is presented with particular emphasis on a recently established community-based mental health centers program across its territory. Results: This description includes consideration of variables such as personal, family and identity empowerment, a focus on integrated care, and clinical outcomes and community relations. The development of community mental health centers across Perú is described. Conclusion: Adolescents represent the unique future of socio-culturally diverse Latin American countries, and must be the target population of well-conceived, cohesive community mental health policies and programs. The importance of political will to promote community health centers that provide adolescents access to services is critical.