In recent years, the field of psychiatry has made significant progress in understanding and treating mental health conditions. However, despite advancements in medical knowledge, the stigma associated with psychiatric patients remains a significant barrier to their well-being and social integration. Recognising the urgency of this, the Department of Social Action has developed a six month pioneering project aimed at accompanying patients at Saúde do Telhal Psychiatry clinic every Wednesday.
The project's implementation has provided invaluable experiences that have broadened the understanding of the challenges faced by psychiatry patients and shed light on potential solutions. Through regular presence at the clinic, the volunteers have witnessed their resilience and determination regarding the impact of stigma on their lives, ranging from social isolation to diminished self-esteem and limited access to opportunities.
Stigma surrounding psychiatry patients is a pervasive issue that perpetuates misconceptions, fear, and discrimination. It impedes the patients' ability to seek help, as they fear being labeled or judged by society. The consequences are manifold, extending beyond individual suffering to impact their families and communities.
Accompanying the patients enlightened a unique perspective into the complexity of their experiences. It was learned to appreciate the diverse range of mental health conditions and the individualised nature of each person's journey towards wellness. Interacting with patients allowed to foster meaningful connections, establishing trust and empathy as the foundation for healthcare.
Volunteering at the Psychiatry Clinic has proven to be an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience for both volunteers and residents alike. The genuine connections formed, the moments of reflection, and the celebration of creativity and talents make every interaction a cherished memory. We are immensely grateful for the dedication and compassion of our volunteers, who continue to make a significant difference in the lives of those at CST.
Read below some experiences from volunteers:
Marta Miguel - The Day of Kisses: A Moment of Reflection and Affection
On one of the Wednesdays I spent at CST, it happened to be the "Day of Kisses." As we arrived at the day centre, we greeted each resident individually, observing their drawings, games, and the magazines they read. They all wanted to engage with us, sharing bits of their day, and little did they know that their messages carried profound subliminal meanings that deeply impacted us. With soothing music playing in the background, an idea emerged – each person would share "whom they would kiss today if they could." The reactions were diverse; some responded playfully, talking about girlfriends and "beautiful girls," while others became pensive, their eyes welled up with tears.
As the discussion progressed, we asked whether the kiss would be an expression of love or friendship. Their responses were heartwarming, revealing a profound sense of humanity and affection. Many of them chose to kiss their mothers, fathers, or siblings, expressing their emotions with beautiful and heartfelt words.
This experience moved me deeply, considering the possible feelings of loneliness that some residents might experience. Some shared stories of not seeing their families for years, while others found solace in knowing they had someone who supported them and looked forward to their return.
Carolina Carvalho - Understanding the Residents: Interests, Dreams, and Talents:
During a group activity to get to know the residents better, they introduced themselves, shared how long they had been at the institution, the building they resided in, and their favourite food. The group was diverse, spanning different ages, interests, cognitive, and social abilities.
As we talked with the caregivers, we learned that the centre does not focus on residents' specific pathologies, emphasising the importance of seeing each individual as a person. One resident, David, opened up about his passion for collecting various foreign coins, particularly British pounds. Others expressed their interests in playing board games and a word game called "word charade," where they create words using the letters of a larger word.
David also shared his childhood experiences and struggles in school, where he faced difficulties with mathematics and was often insulted and belittled by teachers. He spoke passionately about his dream of becoming an actor.
This gathering showcased more than just interactions; it was a revelation of the human spirit's boundless potential. Every story, every aspiration, and every passion wove together a tapestry of inspiration, illustrating the strength that comes from embracing one's true self and nurturing dreams. The genuine connections we formed with these remarkable individuals filled us with hope and reminded us of the transformative power of compassion.