Fala aí checklist: Peer conversations recognising practices of care, hope and solidarity in times of loss and difficulty — Lúcia Helena Abdalla

In Brazil, as elsewhere, The COVID-19 pandemic and related upheavals exacerbated problems like unemployment and domestic violence. Feelings of hopelessness, isolation and impotence became pervasive. Seeking ways to respond to the uncertainty, insecurity and discouragement that many young people were expressing, the author sought ways that stories of courage, care, hope and solidarity could be shared and acknowledged. Drawing on the ‘checklist of psychological and social resistance’ developed in Lebanon by David Denborough and Mohamad Safa, a conversation guide for Brazilian communities was developed. It can be used by professionals, but is particularly designed for use among friends, family members and colleagues. It can even be used for individual reflection. Through consultation with the Nelson Mandela Favela in Rio de Janeiro, and its young people in particular, the Fala aí checklist was refined to be accessible and culturally resonant as a prompt for peer conversations that sustain hope and connection. The Fala aí checklist is included in the paper.

Abdalla, L. H. (2022). Fala aí checklist: Peer conversations recognising practices of care, hope and solidarity in times of
loss and difficulty. International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work, (1), 49–59. https://doi.org/10.4320/DVKT5746