Abstract

VINCES SORNOZA, Tatiana Paola et al. Mental health and public policy: a critical review of ecuadorian legislation. Rev. cient. cienc. salud [online]. 2025, vol.7, e7501.  Epub Dec 30, 2025. ISSN 2664-2891.  https://doi.org/10.53732/rccsalud/2025.e7501.

In the present study, we analyzed how the nine purposes of Article 3 of Ecuador’s Organic Law of Mental Health are supported by national and international scientific evidence. Adopting a qualitative approach, we conducted an exploratory review of recent PubMed articles on psychosocial interventions, community-based care models, and telepsychology, alongside a critical documentary analysis of the legal text published by the National Assembly. The findings confirm that integrating mental health into health plans strengthens intersectoral coordination, that “just in time” interventions reduce stigma, and that community models minimize prolonged hospitalizations, while telepsychology expands access and adherence to treatment. We conclude that, to translate these directives into effective practice, it is essential to establish continuous monitoring systems, promote interdisciplinary training for health teams, and empower communities through co production mechanisms.

Keywords : health policy; mental health; psychological well-being; mental health teletherapy; health programs and plans; public health.

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