Since joining Street Nurses in October 2024, I've had the chance to dive into several highly enriching training and refresher courses. However, the one having the greatest impact on me, was one I took during my internship in 2023, which focused on working with people with schizophrenia. An experience that profoundly transformed my understanding of this complex reality. So much so that, to this day, it still influences the way I support patients in housing.
A deeply moving immersion in mental health
One exercise I'll never forget was when, during a small group discussion, one person had to wear headphones broadcasting disturbing voices. I remember putting on the headphones. I almost immediately felt overwhelmed by dark and distressing voices shouting things like: 'Shut up!', 'Everyone is looking at you!', 'You're doing everything wrong!'.
It barely took three to five minutes, to make me feel both anxious, uncomfortable and unable to focus. Whenever I tried to follow a conversation, I was drowned out by this inner hubbub. Sometimes I couldn't even tell who was speaking: my colleagues or the 'inner voice'?
However, when people spoke to me directly, I was much better able to follow compared to trying to understand an exchange between two or more people. That's when it struck me: this is what people with schizophrenia constantly struggle with: oscillating between an invasive inner world and the external reality.
A new understanding of patients
Since then, certain behaviours of our patients now make more sense:
- Speaking very loudly to drown out voices.
- Talking non-stop (logorrhea) to maintain control of the conversation.
- Losing track of a conversation or answering a question that was never asked.
What may seem simple to us, represents a tremendous effort for them. That's also why some turn to alcohol: to calm the voices and find a little respite in their daily lives.
A lesson in humanity and support
This training was not just a professional ‘refresh’: it was a real lesson in humanity and empathy. It strengthened my skills, reminded me of the importance of a respectful and patient approach, and reinforced my conviction that support must always be provided with listening, kindness and respect for dignity.
I am deeply grateful that Street Nurses invests so much in the continuing education of its teams, both on the streets and in housing. Because beyond knowledge, it is these immersive experiences that leave a mark on us and shape the way we support each person on their path to recovery.
Sarmila — Housing nurse, Street Nurses