Solidarity economy and mental health in Brazil: producing culture for autonomy

Abstract

This text approaches the articulation between solidarity economy practices and the production of citizenship and autonomy among individuals in psychosocial suffering, through an artistic/cultural production. The confluence between public mental healthcare and associated work as an alternative to labor insertion for people suffering from mental disease is, although still challenging, very important in Brazil. We analyze two consolidated experiences, each extending over a period of two decades: The Suburban Madness group in the city of Rio de Janeiro, and GerAção-POA in Porto Alegre, both Brazilian capitals of the states of Rio de Janeiro and Rio Grande do Sul, respectively. The relevance of this research lies in showing the fruitful intersections between social movements, public health care, and arts, especially now that Brazil is facing a period of authoritarianism, which places at risk the democratic achievements of both public policies and social movements.