INTERACTIVE PROGRAMME AT UDHAYAM PSYCHIATRIC CARE HOME
The 3rd-year B.Sc. Nursing students of Sree Abirami College of Nursing organized a meaningful and interactive program at Udhayam Psychiatric Care Home on 26th October 2024. This initiative was part of their academic and professional training, aimed at fostering community engagement, promoting mental health awareness, and gaining practical exposure to psychiatric care.
Objective of the Programme
The main objectives of the program were to:
- Enhance awareness about mental health among patients and caregivers.
- Build empathy and interpersonal skills among nursing students.
- Create a supportive and engaging environment for the residents of the care home.
Program Highlights
1. Warm Welcome and Introduction
The event began with a warm welcome by the faculty coordinator. A brief introduction about the day’s activities and their purpose was shared with the residents, staff, and students.
2. Health Education Session
Students conducted a health education session focusing on topics such as:
- Importance of mental health and well-being.
- Tips for managing stress and anxiety.
Guidance on maintaining a healthy routine and personal hygiene.
- This session was interactive, with the residents participating by sharing their thoughts and concerns.
3. Recreational Activities
To foster a lively and inclusive environment, the students organized various recreational activities such as:
- Group Games: Simple games designed to encourage participation, teamwork, and joy among the residents.
- Art and Craft: Creative activities like drawing and coloring were arranged, allowing residents to express themselves artistically.
- Music and Dance: A musical session where students and residents sang and danced together, creating a cheerful atmosphere.
4. One-on-One Interactions
The students engaged in one-on-one interactions with the residents, listening to their stories, and providing emotional support. This activity helped build rapport and gave the students an understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues.
5. Distribution of Essentials
The program concluded with the distribution of essential items such as toiletries, snacks, and small gifts for the residents, which were sponsored by the students and faculty.
Conclusion
The interactive program at Udhayam Psychiatric Care Home was a resounding success, achieving its goals of creating awareness, fostering engagement, and providing emotional support. It also served as a valuable learning experience for the nursing students, helping them grow as compassionate and skilled healthcare professionals.
Such initiatives underline the commitment of Sree Abirami College of Nursing to holistic nursing education, emphasizing not just technical knowledge but also the humane aspects of care.
