The need for a more holistic approach to mental health was discussed during the first annual conference organised by the Department of Mental Health, within the University of Malta. The conference, Towards humane and holistic mental health care, was sponsored by HILA, Home to Independence and Limitless Abilities.
Through HILA, CareMalta Group's expert in specialised care, persons are empowered through choice and developing individual abilities towards an inclusive and fulfilling life with the main aim for people with disability to reach their full potential. CareMalta Group chief executive, James Sciriha, was also present at the conference held at Learning Works in Qormi.
Focusing on the de-institutionalisation, milestones and challenges, HILA Homes chief executive, Janet Silvio, explained how HILA focuses on three different models of care, which step a bit away from the clinical model and more towards the social model of care.
"We made our models happen through transformational leadership, practising intelligent kindness and connectivity, emphasising kinship and the feel of an extended family, ensuring a multi-disciplinary approach with shared intentions, by seeing the person first and foremost and by having a purpose," said Silvio.
HILA Homes chief executive also explained, during her presentation, the challenges faced and which mainly revolve around empathy, the complexity of the workforce, the client's history and the fear of change, among other issues.
Silvio mentioned that since its inception, HILA has always followed Article 19 of the UNCRPD which emphasises choice and inclusion, principles applied at Casa Apap Bologna and Casal Nuovo, and which are very close to those referred to in the Mental Health Strategy.
HILA has already collaborated in other initiatives organised by the Department of Mental Health, within the University of Malta and through Casal Nuovo, HILA is also offering placements to mental health nurses currently studying at the University of Malta.
For more information about HILA visit www.https://hila.com.mt/