Systematization and Results Four Years after the Process of Territorial Registering for the Implementation of the National Mental Health Policy in the Department of Boyacá 2023

Introduction: Boyacá was chosen for the pilot implementation of the National Mental Health Policy (NMHP). The aim of this study was to reconstruct the process of territorial enlistment for the adoption and adaptation of the NMHP during the 2019-2020 period in Boyacá and to describe its current situation, evidencing the challenges and results obtained in the short term. Methods: A qualitative, interpretative, observational, and non-participant methodology was used. An open survey was conducted on 116 key actors of the process and then a semi-structured interview to 14 people chosen with a purposive sampling based on the type of interaction they had in the implementation of the NMHP, with a thematic categorical qualitative analysis. Results: The main problems were psychoactive substances (PAS) and alcohol use, and domestic violence. The participants considered that the policy was well designed and was fitting for the territory, and highlighted as a strength the political will. They indicated as weaknesses the shortage of resources, institutional capacity and human capital, and the lack of a territorial approach by not considering its conditions of rurality. Conclusion: Even though some of the main concerns mentioned still persist and the impact of the NMHP has not been evidenced in indicators, its results are notable in terms of the direction and budget allocation in favor of mental health in the region.