School dropout in Brazil is a complex challenge, with approximately 2 million children and adolescents out of school, according to UNICEF data (2022). This study investigates the factors associated with school dropout among adolescents in psychological distress treated at a Child and Adolescent Psychosocial Care Center (CAPSi), a facility within the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS) grounded in autonomy and social inclusion. The theoretical framework is anchored in Paulo Freire’s "Pedagogy of the Oppressed" which challenges "banking education," and the work of Bell Hooks, which proposes education as a practice of freedom and a space to rupture oppressions.

Methodology: This is a qualitative study conducted through semi-structured interviews with six adolescents (aged 15 to 18) in dropout situations. The study adhered to rigorous ethical standards, approved by the CEP/FEPECS, and ensured participant protagonism, as they chose their own pseudonyms to guarantee confidentiality. Data were analyzed using Bardin’s Thematic Content Analysis.

Results: The narratives reveal that dropout is multifactorial, highlighting acute psychological distress (anxiety and panic attacks), learning difficulties, and the lack of school adaptation for conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A critical finding was the impact of institutional bullying, perpetrated not only by peers but also by teachers, whose stigmatizing comments caused profound trauma. Additionally, external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and family losses contributed to school detachment.

Discussion and Conclusion: The results evidence a systemic failure in welcoming the emotional demands of students. It is concluded that school retention depends on robust intersectional action between health and education, moving beyond a purely medicalizing perspective. The implementation of public policies is urgent, such as the "Pé-de-Meia" Program, combined with continuous teacher training in mental health, aiming to transform schools into environments of care, dialogue, and integral development.

Vitória Barbosa graduated in 2023 in Occupational Therapy from the University of Brasilia. She is a graduate of the Residency in Child Youth Mental Health modality from the School of Public Health of the Federal District, Brazil. Post graduate in Neurochild Rehabilitation from CREFITO 11 in partnership with Laboro College.