Reflections of structural racism in the epidemiological scenario of self-harm among adolescents in Pernambuco from 2014-2023

Abstract

Introduction: In Brazil, mental disorders in adolescents, such as depression, anxiety, and social phobia, have become more common, especially among those in vulnerable contexts. The relationship between racism and mental health in the Brazilian context is marked by structural violence that affects the Black population from childhood, exacerbating psychological suffering. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological scenario of self-harm in adolescents in the state of Pernambuco between 2014 and 2023, with emphasis on the impact of structural racism. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study based on secondary data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). Results: 9,127 cases of self-harm were recorded in adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, the majority among girls aged 15 to 19 years. The brown population represented 74.74% of the cases, revealing significant racial inequalities. The main methods of self-harm used were poisoning and cutting, predominating among female adolescents. Conclusion: The implementation of intersectional, anti-racist, and territorially-based public policies aimed at promoting the mental health of adolescents, especially the most vulnerable, recognizing racism as a social determinant of health, is urgently needed. The study reinforces the importance of considering race in the formulation of effective prevention and care actions.