Analysis of public mental health policy in Ecuador: 2019-2024

Abstract

Public policies facilitate the efficient allocation of resources, guarantee rights, minimize inequalities, and promote the sustainable development of citizens. They also strengthen democratic governance, regulate conflicts peacefully, and improve crisis response mechanisms. Therefore, the proper formulation, establishment, and corresponding evaluation of public policies ensure greater institutional legitimacy and citizen well-being. In the context of health, public policies guide fundamental decisions based on strategies that directly impact the quality of life of a country’s inhabitants. This research focuses on analyzing Ecuador’s mental health public policy during the period 2019–2024, using a mixed-methods approach that combines both qualitative and quantitative dimensions. Initially, the regulatory framework for mental health in Ecuador was analyzed, highlighting the constitutional basis that gave rise to the National Strategic Mental Health Plan 2014–2017, which laid the foundation for the supporting legislation. Subsequently, public policies related to youth mental health in Ecuador during 2019–2024 were identified. These include the promotion of mental health in educational institutions, the creation of specialized care centers for youth, and the implementation of awareness programs. Finally, it was recognized that the challenges facing public policy and access to mental health services for Ecuadorian youth are primarily economic and structural.