In a humanist care model we searched to analyse experiences lived by nurses interacting with chronic depression patients. There was a female patient who was being assisted by Psycho-social Support Nucleus (NAP), 60 years old, presenting depressive symptoms, proper for her age, probably stressed by her suffering experiences in life. It was a therapeutic interaction as matters of the patient's interest (not the nurses interest) have been presented; the pace of communication has been determined b the patient herself; the nurse (except in the very beginning when the patient was a little anxious) followed her communication, physically approaching her whenever it was necessary; intervened only at necessary moments; inspired confidence that was necessary for the patient to talk about her intimate feelings; helped her to recover when she was out of control; conducted her safely, but with comprehensive attitude until the patient felt easy to leave her; demonstrated that she could help her in other moments if she thought it was necessary. Interaction achieved its aims helping the patient and being technically adequate for therapeutic and diagnosis aspects.
Depression; Interpersonal relationship; Mental health; Nursing