“Cuidando de quem cuida": relato de experiência de abordagem grupal de cuidadores

Abstract

Introduction: With demographic and epidemiological transitions, in addition to changes in the understanding of divergent patterns of child development, the role of a caregiver to provide support to the person in need of care has become increasingly necessary. Usually performed by a woman, the invisible role of caring for others causes psychological, physical, economic and social harm, currently with little support from public health policies. This impact is even greater in the vulnerable population of favelas. The formation of groups, an approach recommended by the Family Health Strategy, can be a powerful ally in supporting these individuals. Objectives: To report the experience as a facilitator of a group for unpaid caregivers treated at a family clinic located in a favela in Rio de Janeiro. Methodology: This is a qualitative, exploratory study in the form of an experience report of the implementation and facilitation of a therapeutic health group in a favela in Rio de Janeiro. Results and discussion: Groupprocesses were analyzed from May to October 2024, from the perspective of the group facilitator role. Communication skills were required, with an emphasis on instigating reflections in conversation circles, in addition to skills with integrative and complementary health practices. It was observed that the participants expressed appreciation for the proposed activities, which brought relief and created a space for reflections and venting about care, in addition to offering a broader support network to the participants. Final considerations: The power of therapeutic groups in primary care to provide attention and care to the specific population of unpaid caregivers is evident. Group facilitation proved to be a good tool for exploring skills that will be of great importance in the work as a Family and Community Physician after the end of the medical residency.