Non-violent Communication and Narrative Medicine for Promoting Sustainable Health

The Covid-19 pandemic and current international circumstances have left many individuals feeling vulnerable, both economically and psychologically. At the same time, pressure is put on healthcare systems, particularly in Europe, resulting in doctor shortages, heavy workloads, and low salaries for healthcare workers. Patients are experiencing longer waiting lists, shorter visiting times, and emergency rooms that underestimate patients' clinical problems. As a result, episodes of self-violence and violence resulting from different causes are happening more frequently, also in hospitals.

However, there is hope, and it starts with sharing our needs, thoughts, and feelings. This is where narrative medicine comes into play, as it helps bring stories to light, listen, ask open questions, analyze the spoken words, metaphors, and timing of communication, and promote a non-violent narrative. The key is to transition from violent to non-violent narratives and the consideration of relationship as a fundamental part of the therapeutic process, deserving an in-depth educational program. This is even more true if one considers that the ecosystem of health, together with the inclusion of diversity and the promotion of peace, is one of the main pillars of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

This book aims to inspire care for one another through the narratives of people with disabilities, patients, nurses, doctors, students, carers, and individuals who meet otherness and resolve conflicts.

Maria Giulia Marini is an experienced epidemiologist and counsellor who is currently the Scientific and Innovation Director of the Health Care Area of Istud. She has a diverse educational background with a degree in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology, as well as specialization in Pharmacology and classical studies. Her professional experience includes working in multinational companies, medical research, organizational and social consulting, and training in Health Care. She is a part of the Board of the Italian Society of Narrative Medicine, and teaches Narrative Medicine and Medical Humanities at various national and international universities. She has developed an innovative and scientific methodology for performing narrative medicine and has authored several publications on the topic, including two volumes for Springer. Additionally, she is the founder and president of the European Narrative Medicine Society and is on the Board of Directors of The Doctor as a Humanist international association. She is a speaker at national and international academic and institutional contexts and emphasizes the importance of knowledge, intelligent kindness, and activism.