Semiotics of mental health: explorations on ways to communicate mental health in theuniversities of Colombia

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate, from the perspective of institutionalizedadolescents diagnosed with psychosocial mental disabilities, the actions andprocesses their families could employ to support their diagnosis. To achieve this, amethodological strategy was adopted, including a hermeneutic paradigm, aqualitative approach, and a descriptive method. Data collection was conductedthrough in-depth individual interviews with thirty adolescents with psychosocialdisabilities under protective measures in a social foundation in Cundinamarca,operated by the Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF). For data analysis,thematic analysis method was applied. The results revealed the lack of involvementof families in the care and support of minors. The interviewees expressed the beliefthat their families suffer for them, but they experience shame and, consequently,distance themselves. To overcome this attitude of disregard from their families,participants suggested supporting them, educating them about psychosocialdisabilities, and providing them with economic support.