Il DSM di Prato e la salute mentale dei migranti: sguardi plurali su mondi in transizione

Abstract

The mental health of migrants in department of mental health (DSM) of Prato: plural looks as worlds in transition

This article presents the theoretical and cultural background, the work methodology and the critical points concerning the experience of a work team in the Mental Health Unit of Azienda USL 4 in Prato (Italy). Since the end of the 90’s, the team has led an intensive clinical activity as well as scientific research and theoretical study in order to improve the conditions of migrants admitted to mental health services. The article is divided into two parts. In the first part, the theoretical and epistemological starting points for the research are presented and related to clinical, educational, cultural and scientific aspects emerged from practical experience. In the second part, the focus is on the “clinical device” adopted, with particular attention to two main operative aspects: the role played by cultural and linguistic mediation, and the function of the work team itself.