2019 Volume 32 Issue 2 Pages 15-27
This paper investigates the process of psychological recovery of in-patients with mind and body malfunctions due to sudden onset of cerebrovascular or neuromuscular disorders. Thirty (30) patients, in a convalescent rehabilitation hospital, with relatively intact cognitive function, underwent Baum-testing at the beginning and end of their hospitalization. The result shows recovery of the unbalanced smallness of the tree and improved connection among the branches, stem, and fruits, and an increase in the unique expression of fruits. The recovery process of four patients under psychological treatment shows that a great transition (experience of symbolic death) occurs after two or three months of hospitalization, when they must face the loss due to illness. At the transition, they must face past experiences of loss, as well as the negated part of themselves. Real loss can only be accepted through the process of facing it. Therefore, personal and sympathetic care contributes to the start of their new life.
