Mental health crisis and response in Brazil

Brazil is experiencing a significant rise in mental health issues within its workforce. Data from the Ministry of Social Security indicated that in 2025, a record 546,254 disability benefits were granted due to mental and behavioral disorders, driving a shift in corporate responsibility and demand for management tools.

In response to these challenges, public safety and health agencies have begun implementing integrated training programs to manage mental health crises. These initiatives focus on fostering coordination between medical professionals and security forces to ensure safer, more humanized responses to psychiatric emergencies.

In Minas Gerais, the Military Firefighters of Poços de Caldas are conducting training for the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS), SAMU, the Municipal Guard, and the Military Police. This training utilizes theoretical instruction and practical simulations to prepare for scenarios involving psychomotor agitation and self-harm.

Similarly, in Rio Grande do Sul, the Brigada Militar is participating in the Integrated Response Program in Mental Health Emergencies at the São Pedro Psychiatric Hospital. This joint effort between the Secretariats of Health and Public Security uses simulations to train police officers in humanized approaches to psychotic crises and aims to standardize emergency call protocols to ensure cases are correctly directed to either health or security professionals.