Program Overview

Program Overview

The Programa de Pós-Graduaçăo em Psiquiatria e Saúde Mental (PROPSAM) at the Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) is a prestigious postgraduate program in Psychiatry and Mental Health. Established in 1972, it was the first postgraduate program in Psychiatry in Brazil, recognized by the Coordenaçăo de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES).

Excellence in Social and Regional Context

PROPSAM has a long tradition of excellence, attracting professionals from various regions of Brazil and beyond. The program has been a hub for forming professors and researchers, with many alumni returning to their home states to pursue careers in academic and research institutions. The program's research focus includes Psiquiatria Social, Modalidades de Tratamento, and Políticas Assistenciais, with three dedicated laboratories studying transformations in the mental health care system in Brazil.

Research Areas

The program boasts several research laboratories, including:

• Centro de Doenças de Alzheimer e outras Desordens Mentais na Velhice
• Programa de Estudos e Assistęncia ao Uso Indevido de Drogas
• Laboratório de Transtorno Bipolar
• Laboratório de Pânico: Avaliaçăo e Tratamento
• Programa de Pesquisa em Obsessőes, Compulsőes e Ansiedade
• Laboratório Integrado de Pesquisas em Stress
• Grupo de Obesidade e Transtornos Alimentares
• Instituto Delete
• Ambulatório de Depressăo Resistente ao Tratamento
• Laboratório de Neurocięncia e Aprimoramento Cerebral

These laboratories not only contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their fields but also provide free treatment and care to individuals in need, making a significant social impact.

Alignment with Funding Agencies

PROPSAM has a strong tradition of competing for and securing funding from prominent agencies such as the Fundaçăo de Amparo ŕ Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ) and the Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq). Several professors are recipients of productivity grants from CNPq, and others are recognized as scientists of the state by FAPERJ.

Economic, Social, and Cultural Impact

The program's impact is multifaceted, contributing to the formation of qualified professionals for academic and market activities. Alumni have gone on to work in various sectors, including government, non-governmental organizations, and private institutions, contributing to policy development, research, and practice in mental health. The program's economic impact includes the provision of free services through its research laboratories and the Centro de Estudos, benefiting individuals and communities directly.

Economic Impact

Monetary Economic Impacts

1. Centro de Estudos em Psiquiatria e Saúde Mental: Offers free events and access to knowledge bases, benefiting users financially.
2. Laboratórios e Unidades de Pesquisa: Twenty-four laboratories and research units provide free treatment and care, reducing financial burdens on individuals and families.

Non-Monetary Economic Impacts

1. Production of Knowledge: The program's academic output and the sharing of knowledge among professionals contribute to the advancement of the field, indirectly benefiting the economy.
2. Professional Development: Alumni contribute to various sectors, enhancing professional capacities and indirectly influencing economic activities.

Conclusion

PROPSAM at UFRJ stands as a beacon of excellence in postgraduate education in Psychiatry and Mental Health, not only in Brazil but also internationally. Its commitment to research, professional development, and community service underscores its significant economic, social, and cultural impact. As a hub for forming the next generation of leaders in mental health, PROPSAM continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of psychiatric care and research.