Editorial: The structural gap in mental health in Chile. Between public discourse and territoriality

Abstract: Mental health in Chile is a complex system influenced by social, economic, cultural, and political factors. Although addressing it requires the coordination of promotion, prevention, and treatment with a community and territorial focus, public policies have historically tended to emphasize an individual model, without fully integrating the social dynamics that condition well-being. The epidemiological landscape underscores the magnitude of the challenge: one in eight people worldwide has a mental disorder, with significant increases after the global pandemic. Chile is among the countries with the highest burden of psychiatric morbidity, with a growing prevalence of depression and anxiety and a steady increase in leave taken for mental health reasons. However, a significant gap in care persists: only 18.7% of people with emotional problems receive treatment. Structural inequalities are reflected in the segmentation of the healthcare system, the low availability of psychiatric beds, the shortage of specialists, and the limited coverage of the GES (Garantías Explícitas en Salud), which excludes multiple high-prevalence disorders, among other difficulties. Chronic underinvestment, at 1.7% of the health budget, much below the 12% recommended by the OECD, exacerbates these disparities. Overcoming this scenario requires strengthening research, improving information systems, incorporating a territorial and community perspective, and promoting integrated care models. Likewise, university education in psychology must combine research, teaching, and community outreach, training professionals capable of influencing public policy and responding to the needs of the mental health system. Closing the gaps requires political commitment, sustained funding, and coordinated intersectoral action.