Creative writing at a Swedish psychiatric inpatient clinic. Perspectives from the authors who guided the patients. An interview study

摘要

Creative writing might support recovery and wellbeing of patients with mental distress. Writing activities often take place in communities, social service facilities, or outpatient care, including psychotherapy. Hospitalized individuals however also need meaningful activities. Therefore, a one-year creative writing project was established at a Swedish psychiatric inpatient clinic. Creative writing workshops were led by established authors. The purpose was to provide opportunities for patients to develop their writing, support recovery, and offer meaningful activities. This study is based on interviews with the four authors who led the activities. The aim of the study was to understand the prerequisites and possibilities of integrating creative writing activities, led by authors, at psychiatric inpatient clinics. The authors sensed that a high level of flexibility was needed during workshops. Moreover, the time frame and the room need to be adapted to writing activities. Moreover, they described meaningful and supportive encounters, belonging, and joy. Clinical recommendations are presented.