Multicenter adaptation of the guide for autonomous management of medication

ABSTRACT Rising psychotropic prescriptions and low empowerment of mental health users hamper qualified delivery of mental health services in Brazil and countries providing universal healthcare. This multicentric study performed in three Brazilian cities aimed to develop the Brazilian translation and adaptation upon the Quebecoise-Canadian Gaining Autonomy and Medication (GAM) Guide; and to evaluate the impact of its use on mental health workers education. Intervention Groups (IGs) were held to provide experience sharing on medication as relevant issues were brought up by the guide. Pre- and post- IGs focus groups were held. Major changes to the original text of the Quebecoise handbook were necessary according to the Brazilian scenario. Results show the Brazilian version as a powerful strategy to promote users' participation in decision making concerning treatment as well as the mental health services they are in treatment at. The handbook also has a positive impact on staff education.