Perception of professionals on the social determinants of child and adolescent mental health

Children and adolescents are vulnerable to mental health problems, but often only individual issues are considered in their determination. This study aimed to know the perception of professionals about the social determinants of child and adolescent mental health. This is qualitative research that counted with the participation of seven professionals. For data collection, semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed according to the assumptions of thematic analysis. The participants showed a broad understanding of health, incorporating in its conceptualization other issues seen as related to being healthy or getting sick. It was identified that the social and living conditions affect the mental health of children and teenagers. In the participants' evaluation, the professional practice is always "drying ice". The findings reveal the perception of professionals about social determinants for the mental health of children and adolescents, suggesting the need to consider their impact on clinical management and organization of care.