On May 24, 2024, our team in India, SCARF, celebrated the second anniversary of Namma Area, an extraordinary event led and organized by individuals with lived experience of psychoses.
For those unfamiliar with this concept, “Namma” is a Tamil word for “Our,” and Namma Area means “Our Space.” This innovative space for individuals with psychoses or any mental health issues embodies autonomy, freedom, ownership, and responsibility. It promotes socialization and recreation through activities like games, movies, reading, and visits to places such as museums or parks. Initiated two years ago under the aegis of the PIECEs project, supported by an NIHR grant, Namma Area has served as a vital platform for engaging communities. The anniversary event, held at Vani Mahal in the heart of Chennai, showcased the remarkable talents of the service users in theatrics, dance, and a dramatic depiction of the space, with the highlight being a powerful panel discussion. The panel featured individuals with lived experience who shared how being part of Namma Area had significantly impacted their lives
The panel featured individuals with lived experience who shared how being part of the Namma Area had significantly impacted their lives. One poignant moment came when a young woman, responding to a question about whether her symptoms interfered with stage performance, said, “New learning pushes back any symptom that I would experience – that is the power of this space.” Answering a family member requesting transport to Namma Area, another panellist was quick to respond, “It is our desire to open more spaces in several parts of the city – this will allow lots of people to be part of the space”
These heartfelt exchanges highlighted the immense value of lived experience in shaping effective mental health initiatives. The director of Scarf mentioned that, as mental health professionals, we have much to learn from those with firsthand knowledge. The day is not far when individuals with psychoses will advocate for what they want and how they want it, paving the way for more inclusive and supportive community spaces.
Namma Area’s second anniversary was a celebration as well as a testament to the power of collective community efforts in fostering mental well-being.
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