Expressions of hope: art as a therapeutic ally in CAPS AD (Center for Psychosocial Care for Alcohol and Other Drugs).

Abstract

Abstract: Psychoactive substance (PAS) abuse is a critical public health challenge affecting millions of people worldwide. In Brazil, Psychosocial Care Centers for Alcohol and Other Drugs (CAPS AD) play an essential role in the healthcare system by offering humanized treatment focused on harm reduction and the development of individualized therapeutic plans. In this context, art therapy emerges as a fundamental strategy, enabling users to express their emotions, reflect on their experiences, and progress toward social reintegration. This article reports on the experience of medical students observing an art workshop at a CAPS AD in southwestern Bahia, highlighting the contribution of this practice to mental health care. This is a descriptive, qualitative study in the form of an experience report. The methodology involved participant observation of the group and the recording of perceptions in field journals, covering four sessions with an average of four participants each. The research was approved by the Federal University of Bahia Ethics Committee and strictly adhered to current ethical standards. The CAPS AD was identified as a welcoming space that combines elements such as plants, music, and natural light to create a safe, therapeutic environment. The art therapy workshops stood out for fostering self-awareness, emotional relief, and psychosocial rehabilitation. Participation in art activities proved to be a valuable tool for reducing anxiety, processing feelings, and strengthening social bonds. The students' experience at the CAPS AD enriched their training by reinforcing a person-centered medical approach and fostering ties between the university and the community, while also deepening their understanding of psychosocial rehabilitation and the impact of substance abuse.