TRANSTORNOS PSIQUIÁTRICOS EM AGENTES DE SEGURANÇA PÚBLICA BRASILEIROS: UMA REVISÃO NARRATIVA

Abstract

Public security agents are professionals who face significant challenges regarding their mental health. The stressful and often traumatic nature of their work exposes them to high levels of stress, traumatic events, and constant pressure, factors that significantly contribute to the development of psychiatric disorders. The present study is a literature review that included 31 publications from the platforms PubMed, Scielo, and Google Scholar, using the descriptors "Psychiatric Disorders, "Violence" and "Public Security Officers" conducted between July and September 2024. It discusses the high rates of occupational stress, depression, burnout, and suicidal ideation, which are suggestive symptoms of the development of Psychiatric Disorders (PD) that were found to have a strong association with the professional activities of Public Security Agents (PSA), as well as the pathologies of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Adding to the multifaceted nature of the problem, there is also the insufficient psychological support available within institutions, borderline working conditions, and a culture of silence, reflecting the stigmatization of mental illness. Therefore, it is essential for the well-being of public security agents, who are frequently exposed to situations of high emotional and occupational strain, to focus on mental health promotion strategies that value life.