HELP, I HAVE A DIFFICULT CASE

Introduction and Objective Balint groups have been conducted by general practitioners since the 1950s as a means to study and reflect on the doctor-patient relationship. The technique grew to encompass other professions interested in its potential to favor an empathic disposition and induce participants to rethink the clinical encounter, by exposing them to divergent thinking. Invited by a leader, a presenter shares an emotionally challenging situation with other participants, who then go on to discuss it. This arrangement propitiates contact with one‘s own feelings, as well as mutual recognition among attendees. It has been seen as a promising way to enhance empathy and resilience in many countries. Here we describe a Balint group composed by the authors. Method In Rio de Janeiro, in a context of fast expansion of primary health care coverage in areas of great social vulnerability, the authors began studying and organizing Balint groups. The goal, apart from disseminating the method, was to offer it as a possibility of care for health workers. Since May 2014, meetings have taken place monthly, with family doctors, residents, students and other health professionals. Results and Conclusions The group has been constantly growing stronger, and today many participants have sought training overseas, especially with the American Balint Society. The initiative has stimulated a qualified expansion of Balint groups in Rio de Janeiro, eased the sense of isolation of health workers, and helped deconstruct care paradigms, besides representing a safe spot for its members to explore care situations which are considered difficult with regards to its relational aspects.