[Gender perspectives in mental health plans in Spain: a pending task?]

Objective: To develop a gender sensitivity index and analyse the regional mental health plans in force in 2021 in terms of their gender sensitivity.

Method: We reviewed the regional mental health plans in force in 2021 using an ad hoc questionnaire design based on a review of documents and reports on gender sensitivity in health policies. We construct an index based on both the symbolic and operative sensibility of plans.

Results: Of the seven plans reviewed, four scored less than 13 out of 26. The maximum score was 18 and the minimum 2. Symbolic gender sensitivity was higher than operational sensitivity.

Conclusions: Mental health plans have a low or very low degree of gender sensitivity. Not considering gender as a determinant of mental health in the formulation of specific health plans may reduce the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing gender inequalities in mental health.