O adoecimento psíquico de jovens universitários: uma discussão sobre a saúde mental na Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná/UNIOESTE

Abstract

Since the Psychiatric Reform experienced in the 1970s, and the shift in paradigm regarding mental health issues referenced in the report 'Mental Health: New Understanding, New Hope' (WHO, 2001), and Law nº. 10.216/2001, which addresses the protection and rights of individuals with mental disorders and redirects the mental health care model, and considering the significant increase in people affected by mental illness and disorders, much has been discussed on the topic. The data concerning mental illness in contemporary times are alarming, especially concerning the young population of the country. In the 21st century, there has been an exponential increase in diagnoses of depression, anxiety, and suicide attempts in this demographic. This reality has been experienced in various institutions, including higher education. Given this scenario, the study arises from the following concern: what is the state of mental health among students aged 18 to 29 in the undergraduate courses at the University of the Western State of Paraná/UNIOESTE? In this regard, the general objective was to gather data on the mental health status of these students and understand the elements contributing to mental illness and their knowledge about mental health. The study was based on the constructs of Historical-Cultural Psychology by Lev Semionovitch Vygotsky and the Psychoanalysis of Sigmund Freud and Jacques Lacan. The historical-dialectical materialism was used as the research method. A mixed-method (quantitative and qualitative) field research was conducted. In the first stage, a survey was conducted with 829 young people aged 18 to 29 who responded to the EADS-21 Scale for symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as the Beck Suicidal Ideation Scale. In the second stage, five students with higher levels of psychological distress in the first stage participated. It was identified that more than 50% exhibited severe or extremely severe symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Suicide attempts accounted for over 17% of the entire sample. In life narratives, students emphasized that the topic of mental health is seldom discussed in the academic environment and that support mechanisms for cases of psychological distress or illness are insufficient. There are difficulties in interpersonal relationships, especially in the teacher-student relationship (marked by demands), leading to suffering regarding career aspirations. As research results, in addition to the reflective description that addresses the problem question, a psychosocial proposal for permanent internal policies for the promotion and prevention of student mental health at UNIOESTE was developed, with a decentralized vision allowing the university environment to address mental health, providing support, and reinforcing critical and humane education. It also highlights that public universities should consider the social role in academic training concerning aspects related to mental health in contemporary times