In Round 2 of the Mandarin Psychosocial Care Programme, we were heartened to welcome 27 participants comprising healthcare professionals, social workers, and volunteers. A team of 10 dedicated trainers conducted 28 sessions every Thursday evening via the virtual Zoom platform. This learning journey, which began on 6 March, culminating in a meaningful closing ceremony on 23 November in Beijing.
Building upon the successful experience of the inaugural round, the organising team expanded enrolment and introduced new workshops focusing on family conferences and family meetings. These additions enriched interactions at the closing ceremony and deepened participants’ understanding of psychosocial care in palliative settings.
Along the Journey
The enthusiasm was palpable. The inclusion of practising clinicians brought renewed vigour, affirming the growing recognition of palliative care as an integral part of holistic healthcare. Many participants diligently attended classes late into Thursday nights—some even logging in from their workplaces after a long day. Their commitment was a moving testament to their dedication and passion for learning.
Throughout the course, case studies served as powerful anchors for reflection. Participants described the sessions as both therapeutic and transformative, prompting them to explore the inner journeys of their patients—and of themselves. One pair of participants even rearranged their work schedules to present a case they had personally managed, sharing that for them, the final stages of a patient’s life held deep meaning and worth pursuing closure for.
Discussions often unfolded like living family trees—revealing intricate stories of love, loss, and reconciliation. Through these exchanges, participants learned to see beyond the illness—to the rich, emotional genealogies that shape each patient’s life story.
Deepening Understanding
As the modules progressed, the learning deepened—from managing illness trajectories to confronting death anxiety and fear of mortality. Many found this period to be not only academically stimulating but also personally transformative, a chance to pause and reflect on their own self-care.
A spirit of mutual respect and camaraderie flourished within the group. Despite differences in background and experience, participants bonded through lively discussions and shared laughter, strengthening their collective sense of purpose in caring for patients.
The Closing Ceremony
The highlight of the programme was the role-play workshop on family conferences and meetings presented at the closing ceremony. A complex case layered with unresolved emotions among family members prompted rich discussion and heartfelt performances. The exercise illustrated the moral and ethical dimensions of end-of-life care, offering invaluable lessons in communication, empathy, and ethical decision-making.
As the ceremony drew to a close, participants exchanged warm hugs, heartfelt wishes, and photographs. Though the learning sessions had ended, the bonds formed during this shared journey continued to thrive through ongoing connections on the WeChat platform—a testament to the enduring spirit of compassion that defines the Psychosocial Care Programme.
Written by Ms Cheyenne Chai, APHN Executive