The Policy for Combating Violence against Women: Dialogues from CAPS

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the interface between Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy and the Policy for Combating Violence against Women, focusing on their implications for network work through Mental Health Centers. The research was conducted in a medium-sized municipality in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Eighteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers and workers of the Mental Health Care Network. The study found that violence significantly impacts women’s mental health, requiring specific actions to be incorporated into the health field. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the purpose of violence notification and a limited understanding of programs and services aimed at protecting and guaranteeing women’s rights. Consequently, the dialogue between the policies is weak and needs to be strengthened, requiring professional training and discussions on violence within the Mental Health Care Network.