The Hospital de Emergência do Agreste (HEA) is actively participating in the Janeiro Branco campaign, which emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness within the community. This initiative, dubbed the Preparing to Return Home Program (PPVPC), aims to connect patients' families and hospital staff through enlightening lectures focused on mental and emotional well-being.
Kickstarting the program on January 6, 2023, the HEA welcomed Judge Alonso Filho, the president of the Alagoas Association of Labor Magistrates, to lead the first lecture titled "Self-knowledge: Neuroscience and Positive Behaviors." Scheduled for 2 PM, this lecture aimed to shed light on self-awareness as it relates to mental health.
Following Judge Filho, physical education teacher Victor Luiz dos Santos discussed the benefits of physical exercise for mental and biopsychosocial health. This session provided participants with insights on the strong link between physical fitness and emotional well-being.
The program continued on January 20 with notable participation from Promoter Rogério Paranhos, who spoke about "Health Prevention for the Elderly." This talk was part of HEA’s broader effort to address the specific mental health needs of different demographics within the community.
Mônica Leal, the psychologist involved with the program, articulated the necessity for varied approaches to mental health, stating, "There are many avenues to contribute to the mental health of the population. Therefore, our programming is diverse with different perspectives on this central theme. [...] seeking help against depression and anxiety." Her insight emphasizes the need for community members to explore various options for improving mental health.
Wrapping up the January 20 sessions, Julyanna Bernardino, the nutritionist and head of the Nutritional and Dietary Service at HEA, delivered her presentation titled "Healthy Nutrition," which reinforced the importance of diet on mental health.
Bárbara Albuquerque, the Director-General of HEA, highlighted the program's significance for the family members of patients and the healthcare workers themselves. She noted, "The Hospital de Emergência is not only recognized for treating trauma victims but also prioritizes comprehensive health care, including mental health, especially for those who face exhausting daily routines." Her remarks showcase the hospital's commitment to holistic health approaches.
This Janeiro Branco program stands as a pivotal initiative by the Hospital de Emergência do Agreste to address the growing concerns about mental health within the community. By integrating various dimensions of health—psychosocial, physical, and nutritional—the program aims to cultivate awareness and provide practical tools for those affected by stress, anxiety, and depression.
Through its commitment to mental health awareness, HEA's Janeiro Branco program not only serves the immediate needs of patients and their families but also fosters resilience and well-being within the larger community. With outreach efforts like these, the HEA is setting the stage for sustained mental health dialogues, encouraging individuals to prioritize their emotional health, now and always.