DOES MENTAL HEALTH CARE REALLY CARE FOR MENTAL HEALTH? A PERSONAL REFLECTION

The phrase ‘psychology in action’ may automatically surface positive connotations to the effects of psychological interventions. However, the fact that something is ‘in action’ or moving, that someone is ‘doing something’, does not automatically indicate favourable outcomes. Misled or badly executed actions can be damaging. Psychiatric care facilities exist primarily to treat the psychological and psychiatric difficulties faced by individuals. Even before the appointment with the therapist and doctor, the mere existence of a psychiatric facility represents ‘psychology in action’. Everything from the appearance of the building to the attitude of the staff contributes to how the facility is putting psychology into action. Therefore, from the moment one is admitted to a psychiatric institution ‘psychology in action’ begins to influence the patient. Theory and therapeutic techniques are essential for effectively putting psychology into action. Indeed, a plethora of information exists regarding the academics of psychology. However, how often are mental health care practitioners made to look at the reality of their patients and clients’ genuine, lived experiences of psychology in action? It is this question which, in light of personal experience, will be kept in mind while reflecting on the subjective experience of both a damaging, and subsequently effective experience of two psychiatric institutions.