Program Reviews

The Global Mental Health Summer School/ Conference was a fantastic way to consolidate knowledge gained from an MSc in Global Mental Health. It was a way to learn about challenges and successes in mental health care in Rwanda and the wider regions from those in country and be able to compare and contrast with the literature that is available, bridging the gap between our academic knowledge and evidence and our lack of practical or lived experience in the field.

The information was presented in a way that was easy to understand but having a background knowledge in the area allowed a more effective and critical look at the information and reflecting on the similarities and differences with whats presented in literature to the experience on the ground.

The presenters were inspiring and showed a high level of expertise that was invaluable. However, being able to share experiences with other students and mental health professionals also attending the conference from Rwanda and other places around the world meant that you not only learnt about current initiatives but also how they translate on the ground. Additionally, it meant being able to share and compare our different cultures, values and the way our countries promote mental health and prevent mental ill-health, reflecting how we can incorporate newly learnt initiatives back home.

A wonderful week full of reflection, friendships and learning.

There is a real difference between looking and seeing. Just as there is between listening and hearing.

My internship in a psychiatric centre in Rwanda really let me explore these differences. We can look at mental health care without seeing what it achieves, what is gained, or what is being missed. We can listen to peoples stories without hearing the deeper meaning for that individual. By allowing myself to be immersed in the environment at the centre, in their values, practice and looking and listening beyond the surface to the reasons behind practices and procedures meant I could not only make the most of my learning but also allowed any suggestions or concerns to come from an informed, reflective and ultimately respectful and helpful place.

Equally, I felt that the staff and patients truly saw and heard me. This mutual respect led to an open, collaborative and mutually beneficial learning and practicing environment as well as to friendships that will last a lifetime.

In terms of the GEI team, they always saw if we needed extra support and heard any concerns or feedback we had and worked conscientiously and effectively to resolve any concerns.

Thank you Rwanda, for giving me the opportunity to see and hear all you have to offer during my internship and for opening my eyes and ears to new ways to approach mental health care.