Les échanges franco-mexicains en psychiatrie. Hommage à Jean Garrabé (1931–2020)

Abstract

ObjectiveIn this text, the aim is to present the history of the exchanges between French and Mexican psychiatry in order to show their richness, parallel to the major influence of the model of Mexico's imposing American neighbor. MethodThis text follows the chronology of these exchanges, detailing the most prestigious invitations, colloquia, congresses, publications, the various psychiatrists and psychologists who participated in creating these links, on the French side and the Mexican side, as well as the various associations and federations. These illustrations are nourished by the first-hand experience of two of the authors who played a central role in these exchanges. Two areas are addressed: intellectual exchanges (conferences, presentations, books, etc.) and institutional links (mutual internships, etc.). ResultsThe article testifies to a rich tradition of exchange that has been kept alive since its inception, step by step. DiscussionAlthough the presentation of the article follows the chronology, it is possible to draw a lesson for the future, as it seems that the French model offers a counterweight to the predominant American model. We will present the anthropological and ethnopsychiatric work of one of the authors in Mexico, who drew heavily on the French example and who is institutionally implanted in both France and Mexico. We will also present the initiative of another author, a project to diversify care in Mexico inspired by the French sector model and its institutional proposals. ConclusionThis article accounts for an already rich tradition, but it also wants to be part of the continuity of the link, which, thanks to the initiatives of the present, will be able to maintain itself and remain dynamic.