AUTHOR=Arámbula-Román J. Carlos , Cárdenas-García Elsy , Durand-Arias Sol , Saracco-Alvarez Ricardo , Carmona-Huerta Jaime , Aldana-López Jesús Alejandro , Villafuerte-Jacob Eveling , Berenzon Shoshana , Carolina Florence Ana , Drake Bob , Susser Ezra , Mascayano Franco 
  
TITLE=Individual placement and support in Mexico: barriers and facilitators
  
JOURNAL=International Journal of Public Health
  
VOLUME=Volume 71 - 2026
  
YEAR=2026
  
URL=https://www.ssph-journal.org/journals/international-journal-of-public-health/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609179
  
DOI=10.3389/ijph.2026.1609179
  
ISSN=1661-8564
  
ABSTRACT=ObjectivesThe Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model has proven effective in different high-income countries. However, its implementation in low- and middle-income countries presents a new challenge. This study identified potential barriers and facilitators for IPS implementation in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, México, to prepare for a clinical trial.MethodsThe study explored potential barriers and facilitators to implementing IPS in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, Mexico, from the perspectives of 61 diverse stakeholders in mental health interest groups: policymakers, administrators, providers, service users, and potential employers. The study used semi-structured, qualitative interviews and structured questionnaires tailored to each participant group and their specific roles.ResultsMajor themes of barriers were stigma, limitations in treating people with serious mental illness, difficulties related to users and their support networks, and systems barriers. Potential facilitators included the effectiveness of programs and specific activities, institutional collaboration, patient-centered approach, and characteristics of IPS.ConclusionThe study provided critical information on challenges and potential strategies prior to an upcoming trial of IPS supported employment services in a large, middle-income country.