Bridging the Gap: Integrating Implementation Research into Mental Health Care

Abstract

Inequality in access to mental health treatments is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed. Despite the availability of Evidence-Based Psychological Practices (EBPP), the population is often unable to access them. A time gap of 17 to 20 years is observed between scientific advances and their implementation in the general population. Implementation Science has emerged to address this issue, focusing on the barriers that prevent the adoption of EBPP and the development of specific strategies. This doctoral thesis addresses two core problems: depression in Primary Care and self-harming behaviors in Penitentiary Centers. The EBPP implemented to tackle these issues have proven effective. However, several barriers have been identified that hinder their adoption within care systems and their scalability. By studying the multiple factors influencing the implementation process, future lines of action have been established to promote equitable access to mental health care.