RSU psychology students launch initiative to support patients at the National Mental Health Centre

Students from the RSU psychology research group took part in a project initiated by the group’s head, Anete Zvirgzda, with the aim of providing personal support to patients at the National Mental Health Centre (NPVC) through drawings created by the students themselves.

Anete Zvirgzda, the initiator of the project, who also works as a special education teacher, has seen particularly clearly in her day-to-day work how important it is to always see the person behind a diagnosis, difficulties or limitations – with their own personality, experiences, emotions and needs.

Drawing as a message of support

Students from Riga Ķengarags Primary School also took part in the initiative, creating drawings that became personal messages and reminders to NPVC patients that they have not been forgotten and that someone is thinking of them.

For psychology students, this was an opportunity not only to discuss empathy, compassion and care for others as part of their studies, but also to put these values into practice. At the same time, the initiative highlighted an important aspect of the professional identity of a future psychologist – the ability to look beyond someone’s diagnosis and difficulties and see the person, with their life story, emotions and need for respect, acceptance and human contact.

A visit to the National Mental Health Centre

On 7 October, students from the RSU psychology research group, together with other participants in the initiative, visited the National Mental Health Centre, where they attended the opening of the contemporary art exhibition Izdegšana (Burnout) by artist Madars Vīlisters. The event was also attended by Minister for Health Hosam Abu Meri and Chairperson of the Board of the NPVC Dr. Sandra Pūce.
During the visit, the participants in the initiative also learned about the NPVC’s historical and cultural environment, gaining a broader insight into the centre’s work and history.

This initiative is one of the ways in which students from the RSU psychology research group combine academic knowledge with practical and socially meaningful engagement. It demonstrates how knowledge of psychology, empathy and care for others can be translated into concrete action and provide support to those who need it.The RSU psychology student research group plans to continue its activities by implementing initiatives that promote the professional development of future psychologists while also contributing to society.