Psychiatry and culture: A journey througout mental disorders and its socio-cultural context

Abstract

Background and aims:

Psychiatric disorders are considered to be universal, being found in all types of societies, from small nomadic groups to large complex civilizations. We can understand Cultural Psychiatry as a perspective that looks for comprehension of psychiatric disorders from the viewpoint of systems of meanings and values prevalent in a society. It went through great developments in the last 20-30 years, becoming extremely relevant in modern societies due to progressive cultural heterogeneity and migrations, which is the case of Portugal.

Methods:

The authors undertake a revision of this topic in the literature

Results:

In a global picture Mental Disorders tend to be more prevalent in geographical contexts of poverty and that amazingly rich specificities are found throughout all psychiatric conditions, including suicidal behaviour, psychotic disorders, affective and anxiety related disorders, among many others, in what concerns ethnic and religious variability within countries, urban/rural environment and social status. It is now accepted that individuals with different ethnic and ancestral backgrounds might differ significantly in their biological inheritance, including pharmacological responses with its implications in therapeutic range and adverse effects.

Conclusions:

It is imperative to take into account all these aspects in every society in order to adequately assess and treat psychiatric patients and ultimately achieve the real meaning of Modern Psychiatry.