B Hedelin1, M Strandmark. 1. Karlstad University, Division for Health and Care, Karlstad, Sweden. birgitta.hedelin@kau.se
Abstract
PROBLEM: To gain a deeper understanding of the meaning of mental health. METHODS: Qualitative interviews with 16 women between the ages of 71 and 92. The data were collected and analyzed using a phenomenological approach. FINDINGS: The essence of mental health is the experience of confirmation, trust and confidence in the future, as well as a zest for life, development, and involvement in one's relationship to oneself and to others. CONCLUSIONS: Creating arenas for encounters confirming the individual's human existence and dignity is an important basis for the psychiatric nurse's health-promotion work.
PROBLEM: To gain a deeper understanding of the meaning of mental health. METHODS: Qualitative interviews with 16 women between the ages of 71 and 92. The data were collected and analyzed using a phenomenological approach. FINDINGS: The essence of mental health is the experience of confirmation, trust and confidence in the future, as well as a zest for life, development, and involvement in one's relationship to oneself and to others. CONCLUSIONS: Creating arenas for encounters confirming the individual's human existence and dignity is an important basis for the psychiatric nurse's health-promotion work.