Poetry as a way to express emotions in mental health

Carvalho, José Carlos; da Fonseca, Paula Isabella Marujo Nunes; de Melo Tavares, Cláudia Mara

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.26/42255

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Authors

Carvalho, José Carlos

da Fonseca, Paula Isabella Marujo Nunes

de Melo Tavares, Cláudia Mara

Abstract(s)

Poetic depiction of problems and complex thoughts is an innovative approach that facilitates introspective thinking and the building of self-identity. This study aimed at providing nursing students with in-depth knowledge about mental health through free poetic production. A qualitative, descriptive research approach, of sociopoetic inspiration involving 96 undergraduate nursing students, was conducted. All ethical recommendations were considered. Four categories emerged: “Hybrid emotions, feelings and sensations”; “Associations”; “Doubts and questions”; and “Reflections”. Students’ poetic writings were analysed and the results highlighted the students’ perception of the dynamics between brain and heart symbolizing reason and emotion. Poetic writing enhances creativity and fosters introspection, acting as an important facilitator of the complexity of mental health-related issues and contributing to improve therapeutic communication skills. Importantly, the search and development of new pedagogical approaches can help to deal with the emotional stressors linked to the novelty of mental health education.

Keywords

Mental health Creativity Expressed emotions Poetry Nursing

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.26/42255

Citation

Carvalho, J. C. M., da Fonseca, P. I. M. N., & de Melo Tavares, C. M. (2021). Poetry as a way to express emotions in mental health. Journal of Poetry Therapy, 34(3), 139-149.