Prácticas Culturales de Cuidado de la Salud Mental y su Relación con la Construcción de Paz en Los Montes de María, Colombia

This study identified and analyzed the cultural practices related to mental health care and their connection to peacebuilding in communities from Montes de María, a region in Colombia affected by armed conflict. Focus groups were conducted with 140 social leaders from the region. The analysis of the results was guided by techniques derived from grounded theory, as well as Mattaini’s theory of cultural practices. Three cultural practices related to mental health care were identified: 1) Gathering with family members, friends, leaders, and other community members, 2) Setting value-driven goals and taking actions to achieve them, and 3) Engaging in artistic or artisanal activities. The results showed the positive impact of these practices in terms of emotional and social/relational benefits, community effects on socioeconomic aspects, and progress in territorial peacebuilding. These findings have implications for psychosocial support processes and peacebuilding efforts.