Adaptation and Implementation of Peer Support in Brazil

Mental disorders are among the leading causes of disability and morbidity worldwide, including Brazil, where despite having a comprehensive network of publicly-funded, free, community-based mental health treatment, it is estimated that only 26% of people with psychiatric conditions successfully connect to community-based care. The study team hypothesizes that the successful adaptation and implementation of an evidence-based model of peer support to Brazilian culture, will contribute to enhanced levels of engagement, improved continuity of care, and improvements in quality of life and wellbeing among persons living with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) in Brazil. After this study, it will have established the feasibility, acceptability, safety and tolerability, of adapting a low-cost, culturally-responsive, evidence-based intervention to improve post-acute supports for people with SMI who access community mental health treatment.