T
he workshop was divided into two parts: a brief overview of our project including a brief presentation by Pat (Dundee Hearing Voices) and then two workshop groups.
The aim of the groups was to examine how theoretical perspectives impact upon service users, carers/significant others, and professionals - from two definitions - auditory hallucinations being 'auditory perceptions with no external stimulus' and hearing voices being 'auditory perceptions understood within the context of an individuals life experiences'.
The overall aim (if we had one!) was to use the time as a springboard to allow participants to consider voices as an experience which can be approached from a behavioural perspective - as a complementary approach to more traditional models of care.
Service users:
Auditory hallucinations - demeaning, confusing, frightening life experiences not respected, feel you are going mad, angry - not believed, your experiences not seen as reality. It was agreed that these experiences could lead to low self esteem, learned helplessness, negative coping strategies eg. Self harm alcohol/drug misuse, social isolation for fear of stigma.
Hearing Voices perspective:
Acceptance of the reality of voices, voices and their nature can be understood thus leading to removal of stigma and promoting control, more open communication, self determination through development of positive behavioural coping strategies (combined if necessary with appropriate medication).
Carers/Professionals:
Auditory hallucinations - Power remains with these groups Carer/professional knows best - well intentioned often trying to protect their relative/client, carers express that the sense of responsibility for relative's wellbeing is often overwhelming, labelling, that is, diagnosis is necessary to obtain services thus reinforcing the disempowerment cycle. Often carers are afraid to talk about voices - maybe more training is required to remove fear of relapse.
Hearing Voices Perspective:
Service user led, open communication, experiences respected and shared, clear boundaries have to be developed as a result and the need for specialist counselling services acknowledged, the nature of voices is of prime importance and their effect upon service user thus carers/professionals are better equipped to understand behavioural strategies developed by voice hearing person, coping strategies can be explored and developed empowering service user to take more control of their mental health.