By employing systematic and nonparticipating observation, the research aimed at studying the operation of a new mental health service in the state of Ceará, Brazil, and obtaining indicators of its continuity and stability. It was concluded that the service is still trying to find its field of action, opposing to unnecessary psychiatric hospitalization but the excessive number of patients the small number of professionals living at the place and the unrealiable job contract jeopardize its future.
psychiatric reform; mental health service; interdisciplinary studies
