Today was our last day of clinical in Oslo. My clinical placement was at FACT Gamle Oslo. FACT is a Flexible Assertive Community Treatment center that aids individuals experiencing severe mental health conditions as well as comorbid substance abuse, homelessness, and trauma. Using the ACT model which was started in the United States, The FACT team goes meets with patients in their homes or treatment facilities. Here they provide mental health services and essential medications free of cost to the patients. These services lend to SDG #3 Good Health and Wellbeing as they support the whole person which includes mental health.
The FACT team travels primarily by e-bike or walking as they visit their patients. I got the opportunity to accompany the team on several assessment sessions in the community. This method of transportation is not only environmentally friendly, but it allows the providers to get exercise and fresh air in between visits which supports SDG #3 Good Health and Wellbeing, #11 Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable, and #12 Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. Members of the FACT team explained that biking and walking to their appointments also helps them to maintain energy and mood throughout the day.
Today also marked the first day of Pride Month. The students of LDUC decorated the college and had a celebratory barbeque with hot dogs and ice cream. The celebration of Pride month reinforces SDG #5 Gender Equality, and #16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
By celebrating and openly accepting individual differences, we create inclusive and safe spaces. It was wonderful to see everyone come together to spread love!
Signing off…..xoxo Norway!