Entre o cuidado e o trauma: o impacto da violência armada na saúde mental dos profissionais e usuários das unidades de saúde do Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

This article analyzes the impacts of armed violence on the mental health of healthcare professionals and users of healthcare facilities in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, with an emphasis on territories marked by social vulnerability and the presence of armed groups. This is a qualitative, exploratory study based on a bibliographic and documentary review, which investigates the main symptoms and challenges faced by these individuals, especially in areas near communities where criminal organizations such as Comando Vermelho (CV), Terceiro Comando Puro (TCP), and militias operate. The results show that continuous exposure to urban violence produces significant effects, such as anxiety, stress, burnout syndrome, and post-traumatic stress disorder, in addition to compromising access to, quality of, and continuity of healthcare. It is also observed that constant fear and insecurity directly affect both professional practices and the population’s willingness to seek healthcare services. It is concluded that armed violence constitutes an important social determinant of health, requiring intersectoral responses and the implementation of integrated and effective public policies.