Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Christine thank you for your amazing appreciation and lovely open approach - this will be wonder-full experience and I hope we get to hear your account of it. I wish to apologise if I sounded upset about terminology - your English is excellent and my other languages close to non-existent! I have an on-going curiosity about the etymology and social meanings wrapped up (Constructs) in our words and how they change from context to place and over time, and how they can give rise to endless moments of 'surprise' :-) In Frendship Anne From: christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Wednesday, 8 October 2014, 23:19 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Thank you all for your answers. It all makes sense, I realized I was dealing with my own fears because of the rush of the event and the location that was a challenge for me last week (a circus with terraces- right now the team found wonderful solutions and I am sure everything will be fine ). Please forgive me for the strange words I used, I hope I did not hurt anyone. My English is what it is , learned as an adult, and I am not aware of mistakes or clumsiness when I write. I meant no offense. In French I am able to choose my words carefully, not in English. However I decided once that I would take the risk of offending people rather than not daring to write on this list. All your answers are too precious to me. It's also a very good way for me to learn proper English. Thank you very much Tree for your words. I am moved. I guess it must be difficult to read my fears projected on people with mental health disabilities. I guess you have to deal with this kind of behaviors quite often. So thank you again for taking the time to write it once more. For sure I will remember it. Especially as I share exactly what you write, my gratitude to Harrison who with Open Space helped me realize that my freedom was all in my own hands, within myself. And that my responsibility was to confront that, and not get trapped by my fears. But instead use my feet. I realize I am shyly beginning to use them (pretty difficult to learn, progress not constant, falling back into traps still too often). This time the traps for me was doctors words. people who are supposed to know. But like me, who are trapped into their own fears. Maybe it will be my lifetime issue. I am reading Marianne Williamson words again Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. This helps. I took my decision : everyone will be welcome, whoever he or she is. To teach us/me - or to touch us/me- with his/her light. Christine On Mon, Oct 6, 2014 at 10:41 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org wrote: ...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne From: R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Christine thank you for your amazing appreciation and lovely open approach - this will be wonder-full experience and I hope we get to hear your account of it. I wish to apologise if I sounded upset about terminology - your English is excellent and my other languages close to non-existent! I have an on-going curiosity about the etymology and social meanings wrapped up (Constructs) in our words and how they change from context to place and over time, and how they can give rise to endless moments of 'surprise' :-) In Frendship Anne From: christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Wednesday, 8 October 2014, 23:19 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Thank you all for your answers. It all makes sense, I realized I was dealing with my own fears because of the rush of the event and the location that was a challenge for me last week (a circus with terraces- right now the team found wonderful solutions and I am sure everything will be fine ). Please forgive me for the strange words I used, I hope I did not hurt anyone. My English is what it is , learned as an adult, and I am not aware of mistakes or clumsiness when I write. I meant no offense. In French I am able to choose my words carefully, not in English. However I decided once that I would take the risk of offending people rather than not daring to write on this list. All your answers are too precious to me. It's also a very good way for me to learn proper English. Thank you very much Tree for your words. I am moved. I guess it must be difficult to read my fears projected on people with mental health disabilities. I guess you have to deal with this kind of behaviors quite often. So thank you again for taking the time to write it once more. For sure I will remember it. Especially as I share exactly what you write, my gratitude to Harrison who with Open Space helped me realize that my freedom was all in my own hands, within myself. And that my responsibility was to confront that, and not get trapped by my fears. But instead use my feet. I realize I am shyly beginning to use them (pretty difficult to learn, progress not constant, falling back into traps still too often). This time the traps for me was doctors words. people who are supposed to know. But like me, who are trapped into their own fears. Maybe it will be my lifetime issue. I am reading Marianne Williamson words again Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. This helps. I took my decision : everyone will be welcome, whoever he or she is. To teach us/me - or to touch us/me- with his/her light. Christine On Mon, Oct 6, 2014 at 10:41 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org wrote: ...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne From: R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Christine thank you for your amazing appreciation and lovely open approach - this will be wonder-full experience and I hope we get to hear your account of it. I wish to apologise if I sounded upset about terminology - your English is excellent and my other languages close to non-existent! I have an on-going curiosity about the etymology and social meanings wrapped up (Constructs) in our words and how they change from context to place and over time, and how they can give rise to endless moments of 'surprise' :-) In Frendship Anne From: christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Wednesday, 8 October 2014, 23:19 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Thank you all for your answers. It all makes sense, I realized I was dealing with my own fears because of the rush of the event and the location that was a challenge for me last week (a circus with terraces- right now the team found wonderful solutions and I am sure everything will be fine ). Please forgive me for the strange words I used, I hope I did not hurt anyone. My English is what it is , learned as an adult, and I am not aware of mistakes or clumsiness when I write. I meant no offense. In French I am able to choose my words carefully, not in English. However I decided once that I would take the risk of offending people rather than not daring to write on this list. All your answers are too precious to me. It's also a very good way for me to learn proper English. Thank you very much Tree for your words. I am moved. I guess it must be difficult to read my fears projected on people with mental health disabilities. I guess you have to deal with this kind of behaviors quite often. So thank you again for taking the time to write it once more. For sure I will remember it. Especially as I share exactly what you write, my gratitude to Harrison who with Open Space helped me realize that my freedom was all in my own hands, within myself. And that my responsibility was to confront that, and not get trapped by my fears. But instead use my feet. I realize I am shyly beginning to use them (pretty difficult to learn, progress not constant, falling back into traps still too often). This time the traps for me was doctors words. people who are supposed to know. But like me, who are trapped into their own fears. Maybe it will be my lifetime issue. I am reading Marianne Williamson words again Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. This helps. I took my decision : everyone will be welcome, whoever he or she is. To teach us/me - or to touch us/me- with his/her light. Christine On Mon, Oct 6, 2014 at 10:41 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org wrote: ...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne From: R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Thank you all for your answers. It all makes sense, I realized I was dealing with my own fears because of the rush of the event and the location that was a challenge for me last week (a circus with terraces- right now the team found wonderful solutions and I am sure everything will be fine ). Please forgive me for the strange words I used, I hope I did not hurt anyone. My English is what it is , learned as an adult, and I am not aware of mistakes or clumsiness when I write. I meant no offense. In French I am able to choose my words carefully, not in English. However I decided once that I would take the risk of offending people rather than not daring to write on this list. All your answers are too precious to me. It's also a very good way for me to learn proper English. Thank you very much Tree for your words. I am moved. I guess it must be difficult to read my fears projected on people with mental health disabilities. I guess you have to deal with this kind of behaviors quite often. So thank you again for taking the time to write it once more. For sure I will remember it. Especially as I share exactly what you write, my gratitude to Harrison who with Open Space helped me realize that my freedom was all in my own hands, within myself. And that my responsibility was to confront that, and not get trapped by my fears. But instead use my feet. I realize I am shyly beginning to use them (pretty difficult to learn, progress not constant, falling back into traps still too often). This time the traps for me was doctors words. people who are supposed to know. But like me, who are trapped into their own fears. Maybe it will be my lifetime issue. I am reading Marianne Williamson words again Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you *not* to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. This helps. I took my decision : everyone will be welcome, whoever he or she is. To teach us/me - or to touch us/me- with his/her light. Christine On Mon, Oct 6, 2014 at 10:41 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org wrote: ...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne -- *From:* R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 *Subject:* Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Thank you all for your answers. It all makes sense, I realized I was dealing with my own fears because of the rush of the event and the location that was a challenge for me last week (a circus with terraces- right now the team found wonderful solutions and I am sure everything will be fine ). Please forgive me for the strange words I used, I hope I did not hurt anyone. My English is what it is , learned as an adult, and I am not aware of mistakes or clumsiness when I write. I meant no offense. In French I am able to choose my words carefully, not in English. However I decided once that I would take the risk of offending people rather than not daring to write on this list. All your answers are too precious to me. It's also a very good way for me to learn proper English. Thank you very much Tree for your words. I am moved. I guess it must be difficult to read my fears projected on people with mental health disabilities. I guess you have to deal with this kind of behaviors quite often. So thank you again for taking the time to write it once more. For sure I will remember it. Especially as I share exactly what you write, my gratitude to Harrison who with Open Space helped me realize that my freedom was all in my own hands, within myself. And that my responsibility was to confront that, and not get trapped by my fears. But instead use my feet. I realize I am shyly beginning to use them (pretty difficult to learn, progress not constant, falling back into traps still too often). This time the traps for me was doctors words. people who are supposed to know. But like me, who are trapped into their own fears. Maybe it will be my lifetime issue. I am reading Marianne Williamson words again Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you *not* to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. This helps. I took my decision : everyone will be welcome, whoever he or she is. To teach us/me - or to touch us/me- with his/her light. Christine On Mon, Oct 6, 2014 at 10:41 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org wrote: ...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne -- *From:* R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 *Subject:* Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Thank you all for your answers. It all makes sense, I realized I was dealing with my own fears because of the rush of the event and the location that was a challenge for me last week (a circus with terraces- right now the team found wonderful solutions and I am sure everything will be fine ). Please forgive me for the strange words I used, I hope I did not hurt anyone. My English is what it is , learned as an adult, and I am not aware of mistakes or clumsiness when I write. I meant no offense. In French I am able to choose my words carefully, not in English. However I decided once that I would take the risk of offending people rather than not daring to write on this list. All your answers are too precious to me. It's also a very good way for me to learn proper English. Thank you very much Tree for your words. I am moved. I guess it must be difficult to read my fears projected on people with mental health disabilities. I guess you have to deal with this kind of behaviors quite often. So thank you again for taking the time to write it once more. For sure I will remember it. Especially as I share exactly what you write, my gratitude to Harrison who with Open Space helped me realize that my freedom was all in my own hands, within myself. And that my responsibility was to confront that, and not get trapped by my fears. But instead use my feet. I realize I am shyly beginning to use them (pretty difficult to learn, progress not constant, falling back into traps still too often). This time the traps for me was doctors words. people who are supposed to know. But like me, who are trapped into their own fears. Maybe it will be my lifetime issue. I am reading Marianne Williamson words again Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you *not* to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. This helps. I took my decision : everyone will be welcome, whoever he or she is. To teach us/me - or to touch us/me- with his/her light. Christine On Mon, Oct 6, 2014 at 10:41 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org wrote: ...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne -- *From:* R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 *Subject:* Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne From: R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment not the outputs or the outcomes. The challenge to the sponsor is are they willing to let the participants choose? The law of two feet is always an option. Working with adult persons with a disability it is a wonder when they are given permission to actually do their own thing rather than play a role to meet others expectations. Too often I have found that these adults have been micro managed to a level very few of us would accept. When I released the shackles of this control the wealth of contribution is spectacular. At the end of one Open Space event where the participants were encouraged to look for issues and opportunities in their work place. The participants were encouraged to make a paper aeroplane ( including one person who had spent most of her adult life to the age of 45 in mental institution). Then each ( with their own design) launched their aircraft. Each person was then asked to choose one flight that best described their work place . The insights and conversations that were shared were very rich - in their own way in their own words they gave a graphic and very accurate picture of the workplace and a set of opportunities which can only be describe as inspirational. As Harrison said the rewards outweigh the effort - trust the system and keep the space and of course a nap is always a good option. Regards Rob ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne From: R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment not the outputs or the outcomes. The challenge to the sponsor is are they willing to let the participants choose? The law of two feet is always an option. Working with adult persons with a disability it is a wonder when they are given permission to actually do their own thing rather than play a role to meet others expectations. Too often I have found that these adults have been micro managed to a level very few of us would accept. When I released the shackles of this control the wealth of contribution is spectacular. At the end of one Open Space event where the participants were encouraged to look for issues and opportunities in their work place. The participants were encouraged to make a paper aeroplane ( including one person who had spent most of her adult life to the age of 45 in mental institution). Then each ( with their own design) launched their aircraft. Each person was then asked to choose one flight that best described their work place . The insights and conversations that were shared were very rich - in their own way in their own words they gave a graphic and very accurate picture of the workplace and a set of opportunities which can only be describe as inspirational. As Harrison said the rewards outweigh the effort - trust the system and keep the space and of course a nap is always a good option. Regards Rob ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
...curious about the differing labels (and constructed meanings therein) - disability is an odd one for me when discussing psychiatric/mental health issues - checking with my UK cohorts - doesn't this sound a little fixed? We don't have cancer disabilities (etc). Some personality, learning and cognitive disorders are pretty much intrinsic to an individual (autism, for example). Some diseases excite the pharma world and the neuroscientists in seeking a lucrative cure. Most mental health is a weather system really?? Psychoses are helped with drugs and lots of the smarter kinds of help including self-help. Neuroses are often the natural if challenging and often extreme responses to life. The fsahions in terms of language around this area change constantly - so how do others read 'disability' in this 'diversely and variably abled' world? yours curiously Anne From: R Chaffe via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: Therese Fitzpatrick therese.fitzpatr...@gmail.com; World wide Open Space Technology email list oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Monday, 6 October 2014, 1:17 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment not the outputs or the outcomes. The challenge to the sponsor is are they willing to let the participants choose? The law of two feet is always an option. Working with adult persons with a disability it is a wonder when they are given permission to actually do their own thing rather than play a role to meet others expectations. Too often I have found that these adults have been micro managed to a level very few of us would accept. When I released the shackles of this control the wealth of contribution is spectacular. At the end of one Open Space event where the participants were encouraged to look for issues and opportunities in their work place. The participants were encouraged to make a paper aeroplane ( including one person who had spent most of her adult life to the age of 45 in mental institution). Then each ( with their own design) launched their aircraft. Each person was then asked to choose one flight that best described their work place . The insights and conversations that were shared were very rich - in their own way in their own words they gave a graphic and very accurate picture of the workplace and a set of opportunities which can only be describe as inspirational. As Harrison said the rewards outweigh the effort - trust the system and keep the space and of course a nap is always a good option. Regards Rob ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
[OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Christine, my only personal experience is with Developmentally Disabled (We might say “slow”), but I’ve heard of OS’s with psychiatric populations. In both cases the Open Space worked just as usual, and people seemed surprised that the participants were more functional in Open Space than they were usually. Made sense to me. Harrison Winter Address 7808 River Falls Drive Potomac, MD 20854 301-365-2093 Summer Address 189 Beaucaire Ave. Camden, ME 04843 207-763-3261 Websites www.openspaceworld.com www.ho-image.com OSLIST To subscribe, unsubscribe, change your options, view the archives of OSLIST Go to: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org From: OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of christine koehler via OSList Sent: Sunday, October 05, 2014 2:19 AM To: OSLIST Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne From: christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
yeah - what he said From: Harrison Owen via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: 'christine koehler' chris.alice.koeh...@gmail.com; 'World wide Open Space Technology email list' oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Sunday, 5 October 2014, 13:34 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Christine, my only personal experience is with Developmentally Disabled (We might say “slow”), but I’ve heard of OS’s with psychiatric populations. In both cases the Open Space worked just as usual, and people seemed surprised that the participants were more functional in Open Space than they were usually. Made sense to me. Harrison Winter Address 7808 River Falls Drive Potomac, MD 20854 301-365-2093 Summer Address 189 Beaucaire Ave. Camden, ME 04843 207-763-3261 Websites www.openspaceworld.com www.ho-image.com OSLIST To subscribe, unsubscribe, change your options, view the archives of OSLIST Go to:http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org From:OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of christine koehler via OSList Sent: Sunday, October 05, 2014 2:19 AM To: OSLIST Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
;) On 10/05/2014 04:08 PM, anne.bennett8ac wrote: Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
;) On 10/05/2014 04:08 PM, anne.bennett8ac wrote: Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment not the outputs or the outcomes. The challenge to the sponsor is are they willing to let the participants choose? The law of two feet is always an option. Working with adult persons with a disability it is a wonder when they are given permission to actually do their own thing rather than play a role to meet others expectations. Too often I have found that these adults have been micro managed to a level very few of us would accept. When I released the shackles of this control the wealth of contribution is spectacular. At the end of one Open Space event where the participants were encouraged to look for issues and opportunities in their work place. The participants were encouraged to make a paper aeroplane ( including one person who had spent most of her adult life to the age of 45 in mental institution). Then each ( with their own design) launched their aircraft. Each person was then asked to choose one flight that best described their work place . The insights and conversations that were shared were very rich - in their own way in their own words they gave a graphic and very accurate picture of the workplace and a set of opportunities which can only be describe as inspirational. As Harrison said the rewards outweigh the effort - trust the system and keep the space and of course a nap is always a good option. Regards Rob ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
[OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Christine, my only personal experience is with Developmentally Disabled (We might say “slow”), but I’ve heard of OS’s with psychiatric populations. In both cases the Open Space worked just as usual, and people seemed surprised that the participants were more functional in Open Space than they were usually. Made sense to me. Harrison Winter Address 7808 River Falls Drive Potomac, MD 20854 301-365-2093 Summer Address 189 Beaucaire Ave. Camden, ME 04843 207-763-3261 Websites www.openspaceworld.com www.ho-image.com OSLIST To subscribe, unsubscribe, change your options, view the archives of OSLIST Go to: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org From: OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of christine koehler via OSList Sent: Sunday, October 05, 2014 2:19 AM To: OSLIST Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne From: christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
yeah - what he said From: Harrison Owen via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: 'christine koehler' chris.alice.koeh...@gmail.com; 'World wide Open Space Technology email list' oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Sunday, 5 October 2014, 13:34 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Christine, my only personal experience is with Developmentally Disabled (We might say “slow”), but I’ve heard of OS’s with psychiatric populations. In both cases the Open Space worked just as usual, and people seemed surprised that the participants were more functional in Open Space than they were usually. Made sense to me. Harrison Winter Address 7808 River Falls Drive Potomac, MD 20854 301-365-2093 Summer Address 189 Beaucaire Ave. Camden, ME 04843 207-763-3261 Websites www.openspaceworld.com www.ho-image.com OSLIST To subscribe, unsubscribe, change your options, view the archives of OSLIST Go to:http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org From:OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of christine koehler via OSList Sent: Sunday, October 05, 2014 2:19 AM To: OSLIST Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
;) On 10/05/2014 04:08 PM, anne.bennett8ac wrote: Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
;) On 10/05/2014 04:08 PM, anne.bennett8ac wrote: Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment not the outputs or the outcomes. The challenge to the sponsor is are they willing to let the participants choose? The law of two feet is always an option. Working with adult persons with a disability it is a wonder when they are given permission to actually do their own thing rather than play a role to meet others expectations. Too often I have found that these adults have been micro managed to a level very few of us would accept. When I released the shackles of this control the wealth of contribution is spectacular. At the end of one Open Space event where the participants were encouraged to look for issues and opportunities in their work place. The participants were encouraged to make a paper aeroplane ( including one person who had spent most of her adult life to the age of 45 in mental institution). Then each ( with their own design) launched their aircraft. Each person was then asked to choose one flight that best described their work place . The insights and conversations that were shared were very rich - in their own way in their own words they gave a graphic and very accurate picture of the workplace and a set of opportunities which can only be describe as inspirational. As Harrison said the rewards outweigh the effort - trust the system and keep the space and of course a nap is always a good option. Regards Rob ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
[OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Christine, my only personal experience is with Developmentally Disabled (We might say “slow”), but I’ve heard of OS’s with psychiatric populations. In both cases the Open Space worked just as usual, and people seemed surprised that the participants were more functional in Open Space than they were usually. Made sense to me. Harrison Winter Address 7808 River Falls Drive Potomac, MD 20854 301-365-2093 Summer Address 189 Beaucaire Ave. Camden, ME 04843 207-763-3261 Websites www.openspaceworld.com www.ho-image.com OSLIST To subscribe, unsubscribe, change your options, view the archives of OSLIST Go to: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org From: OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of christine koehler via OSList Sent: Sunday, October 05, 2014 2:19 AM To: OSLIST Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne From: christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
yeah - what he said From: Harrison Owen via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org To: 'christine koehler' chris.alice.koeh...@gmail.com; 'World wide Open Space Technology email list' oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Sent: Sunday, 5 October 2014, 13:34 Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Christine, my only personal experience is with Developmentally Disabled (We might say “slow”), but I’ve heard of OS’s with psychiatric populations. In both cases the Open Space worked just as usual, and people seemed surprised that the participants were more functional in Open Space than they were usually. Made sense to me. Harrison Winter Address 7808 River Falls Drive Potomac, MD 20854 301-365-2093 Summer Address 189 Beaucaire Ave. Camden, ME 04843 207-763-3261 Websites www.openspaceworld.com www.ho-image.com OSLIST To subscribe, unsubscribe, change your options, view the archives of OSLIST Go to:http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org From:OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of christine koehler via OSList Sent: Sunday, October 05, 2014 2:19 AM To: OSLIST Subject: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
;) On 10/05/2014 04:08 PM, anne.bennett8ac wrote: Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
;) On 10/05/2014 04:08 PM, anne.bennett8ac wrote: Precisely my point Doug ;-) Sent from Samsung Mobile Original message From: doug via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Date: 2014/10/05 19:24 (GMT+00:00) To: oslist@lists.openspacetech.org Subject: Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Aren't those who work in the institutions we call organizations institutionalized? :- Doug. Germann On 10/05/2014 08:47 AM, Anne Bennett via OSList wrote: Hi Christine I have worked in nominally 'mental health' areas for many years. Designing a range of events for various purposes, I found a few things of interest - 1. Practical things first - resist the 'over helping', restrain the enthusiasms of the 'helpful' and minimise the special attention to those perceived to have special challenges - often they don't - make general arrangements for supportive/relaxed/unimposing spaces [chilled zones, obvious exits]. The more 'we' think 'they' need special help, the more this may become true, and equally denies the truth that 'who doesnt need this help?' Although once there were 'criminally insane' prisoners in an event, hand-cuffed to their forensic health care workers, their inputs and engagements were as sane and probably the most relevant of any. The notion of individuals making their own decisions to join/leave groups and manage their own time, communication and activity is a challenge for the institutionalised - how many organisations are free of such behavioural effects? Your art of facilitation (calm liberation of the space, gentle encouragement, presence) is the main thing to bring on the day. 2. Subtler observations I would share: - the 'norms' (people who are 'us' not 'them') bring a lot of baggage to the thing - the psychodynamicals among us can have a field day with the introjections etc etc; - specifically the psychiatrically credentialled professionals have the most difficulty of any specific group I have ever met (including the heads of state, monks, prisoners, scientists, artists, asylum seekers and homeless) to get involved at the EQ level with anyone else in the room - a day or so in and a few are communicating almost like humans; - mental health labels can be applied to most of us some of the time - serious (in terms of lifestyle-impacting), chronic or acute psychiatric disorders can mean some people have altered realities some or most of the time, and/or be chemically suppressed. This brings versions of contribution that add to the diverse mix that we can experience in any group. The principles of OST are among the most sense-making for such diversity and one is reminded anew of how universally helpful it is to stay mindful of these qualities of human society. So I guess the intentions of your planners are nice, the time element is a red herring, and the perceptions of who is 'included' and how this is achieved may require something quite other than what might be going on or proposed In friendship Anne *From:* christine koehler via OSList oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *To:* OSLIST oslist@lists.openspacetech.org *Sent:* Sunday, 5 October 2014, 7:18 *Subject:* [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders Hi everyone, I would like to know if you have experienced an open space (circa 150 people) in which people with psychiatric disorders are among the participants. How did it go ? How did you prepare it ? I am asking because during pre-work of an open space, the topic came out, as one of the organizer is working with them in order to help them be included in the society as any other citizen. Of course I understand the idea and I second it, but I wonder how to prepare it (and if we have enough time for that...) Christine -- ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org mailto:oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http
Re: [OSList] Opening space with people with psychiatric disorders
who ever comes is the right people. Having spent the past 7 years working directly with persons with a diagnosed disability and 20 years working in the wider community (often with people under significant stress) the same challenge remains and that is to unconditionally accept people on their terms and as they are. The second challenge is give them the security of an Open Space where they can be heard, that is I need to listen. Rev Ray Richmond ( of the Wayside Chapel Kings Cross Sydney) gave me one rule and - harm to others is totally unacceptable and that is where a facilitator must intervene to secure the space. Maslow highlighted the conditions under which people can reach their full potential and safety and security are two conditions that are essential. Facilitating Open Space I can only make one promise and that is to the best of my ability I will create and maintain a secure space where the participants can do what ever they do. I can only promise the environment not the outputs or the outcomes. The challenge to the sponsor is are they willing to let the participants choose? The law of two feet is always an option. Working with adult persons with a disability it is a wonder when they are given permission to actually do their own thing rather than play a role to meet others expectations. Too often I have found that these adults have been micro managed to a level very few of us would accept. When I released the shackles of this control the wealth of contribution is spectacular. At the end of one Open Space event where the participants were encouraged to look for issues and opportunities in their work place. The participants were encouraged to make a paper aeroplane ( including one person who had spent most of her adult life to the age of 45 in mental institution). Then each ( with their own design) launched their aircraft. Each person was then asked to choose one flight that best described their work place . The insights and conversations that were shared were very rich - in their own way in their own words they gave a graphic and very accurate picture of the workplace and a set of opportunities which can only be describe as inspirational. As Harrison said the rewards outweigh the effort - trust the system and keep the space and of course a nap is always a good option. Regards Rob ___ OSList mailing list To post send emails to OSList@lists.openspacetech.org To unsubscribe send an email to oslist-le...@lists.openspacetech.org To subscribe or manage your subscription click below: http://lists.openspacetech.org/listinfo.cgi/oslist-openspacetech.org
