Let me begin by describing what this blog is not. This blog is not a location to exploit, make fun of, or deface individuals living in mental institutions. It is not a place to judge them, or relegate them further than they have been by the system. It is certainly not a place to hinder confidentiality, so individuals will be referred to by false names, and no defining features will be made public.
I've created this blog to document my experiences as a volunteer at a psychiatric hospital. I am by no means an expert in the field of mental health; I am merely an undergraduate psychology student who has an itch to explore and the passion to be of even minimal assistance to the lives of these forgotten people. This blog, by no means, intends to isolate these individuals further, but hopes to serve the unifying cause of bringing light and education to an area of health care that is often blinded by misconceptions, prejudices, and fear.
I have my doubts about the ethics of the mental health care system, and this blog will-- alongside my experiences-- highlight the inadequacies that I come by in my journey. It is an opportunity to spread awareness and educate, as well as bring to the limelight horrific issues that are often swept under the carpet.
Ultimately, I hope to become more educated by this experience, and share with you the successes, failures, hopes, and fears that play a role in my time here. Every day brings on new challenges, new pressing situations, and new ways of being of assistance. Come along for the journey.
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