Let's work together

Abstract

Since the early 80s the emergence of AIDS has reminded us of the importance of mind-body unity and of the fundamental nature of a global clinical approach to treatment. Given the diversity of their abilities, psychoanalysts, nurses, psychiatrists and psychologists are called in a holistic approach to HIV patients. Public sector psychiatry however seems to have avoided any involvement, although a collective approach is necessary for patients, family and staff. Beyond the question of communication, certain questions reveal deep resistance. These may come from therapists, teams or patients; they may be general or specific and cause misunderstanding and misuse of existing structures aud a separation in terms of praxis which is prejudicial to the patients whose needs are considerable. Certain propositions take the psychological and psychiatric needs of the patients, family and staff into account, both in and out of hospital so as to reduce institutional shortcomings. They are inspired by a report 'AIDS and Psychiatry' the essence of which is also found in the state document DH/DGS n°96-494 of August 5, 1996. A back-up group is in charge of its application. Public psychiatry can no longer ignore its duty concerning treatment and prevention.