Abstract

BRAUN, Lori Maria; DELLAZZANA-ZANON, Letícia Lovato  and  HALPERN, Silvia C.. The family of a drug addict in a Public Mental Health Center (CAPS): an experience report. Rev. SPAGESP [online]. 2014, vol.15, n.2, pp. 122-144. ISSN 1677-2970.

The aim of this article was to present an experience report on the treatment provided by a social family therapist to the family of a drug addict in a public mental health center (CAPS). The identified patient, his wife and parents participated in the study. 12 sessions were held during three months Data were collected through family interviews, hospital visits, and home visits. It was observed that the family had little knowledge on chemical dependency. The main feelings reported were shame, guilty and worthlessness. The guarantee of a reserved space for talking about chemical dependency produced considerable changes, generating coherence and mutual support, what has motivated the family to keep facing the adversities of illness with hope. It is expected that practical results of this study might broaden the discussion on the importance of including the family on interventions for drug addiction.

Keywords : addiction; family; mental health services.

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