A Mutual-Aid Group for Psychiatric Rehabilitation of Mental Ex-Patients in Hong Kong

Abstract

Background: Mutual-aid group and self-directed group are recognized as important interventions for anti-oppression of disadvantaged groups in our society. Method: In this paper, the writer describes a mutual-aid group implemented in a psychiatric half-way house in Hong Kong. Members in this group were free to set their own agenda for discussion and to invite guest speakers. In terms of various stages of this group, the writer discusses how different group activities facilitated the development of mutual-aid and self-directed natures of mental ex-patients. Results: The findings show that this group can have an impact on the wider community and aid in improving the self-image of mental ex-patients and the perception of them as contributing positively to that community, hence lessening negative stereotypes.