UISP Catanzaro Presents “Della Cura” by Loredana Di Adamo: Exploring Care as a Human and Social Experience

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October 9, 2025

Valuing Care: A Reflective Dialogue on mental Health and Societal Wellbeing

A notable gathering took place recently, dedicated to exploring the profound significance of Care as both a human and social necessity.The event, held in conjunction with World Mental Health Day, brought together leading experts and community members for a day of reflection, discussion, and shared experiences.

A Party of Reflection and Dialogue

The assembly was organized by the Libellula AFASP association, aiming to provide an opportunity to celebrate mental Health Day through readings, personal accounts, and insightful presentations. Esteemed professors Dr. Natale calderaro, Dr.Loredana Di Adamo,and dr. Vincenzo Falabella were among the keynote speakers.

Central to the event was the presentation of a new book authored by Dr. Di Adamo. the work is the culmination of years of research, intending for integration into university curricula to preserve the legacy of figures like Professor Franco Basaglia, a pioneer in mental health reform.

Remembering Franco Basaglia and the Need for Continued Study

Dr. Di Adamo emphasized her own educational experience, noting the absence of Professor Basaglia’s contributions within her psychology coursework. She advocated for a renewed focus on studying his work, highlighting the themes of empowerment and bravery within mental healthcare.

Professor Calderaro synthesized the core message of the day into three key terms: Emotions, Connections, and transformations, underlining their interconnectedness in the realm of care.

Historical Context and Current Challenges

Attendees heard compelling stories relating to Professor Basaglia’s experiences, including his work in Reggio Calabria during a period of significant social unrest in the 1970s. The accounts depicted a severely under-resourced mental health system that Basaglia sought to improve. References were drawn to influential works like Ronald Laing’s “The Divided Self” and the song “I Treni per Reggio Calabria” by Giovanna Marini, highlighting the enduring relevance of these themes.

According to the World Health Institution, nearly one billion people live with a mental disorder. WHO data shows that mental health conditions are leading causes of health loss globally.

Personal Stories and the Power of Human Connection

Dr. Vincenzo Falabella shared a deeply moving personal testimony, illustrating the pivotal role of human connection in therapeutic processes. He recounted instances of successfully integrating psychiatric patients into the musical arts, navigating professional setbacks, and witnessing remarkable recoveries, including a young woman who later secured a position at a prestigious health facility.

The Role of Associations and the State of Healthcare

The discussions extended to the broader state of healthcare systems and the vital contributions made by organizations like Libellula AFASP, which recently participated in a workshop at the Ministry of Health in Rome focused on the ABC project.

Speaker	Key Contribution
Dr. Loredana Di Adamo	Presented a new book advocating for the study of Franco Basaglia’s work.
professor Natale Calderaro	Summarized the event’s core message: Emotions, Connections, Transformations.
Dr. Vincenzo Falabella	Shared personal stories illustrating the power of human connection in therapy.

The Enduring Importance of Care

The event serves as a potent reminder of the fundamental human need for care and the importance of prioritizing mental health. As societies grapple with increasing stress and complexity, the principles championed by figures like Professor Basaglia-deinstitutionalization, community-based care, and a focus on the individual-remain profoundly relevant. Investing in accessible, compassionate, and respectful mental health services is not merely a healthcare imperative, but a core societal responsibility.

Did You No? The concept of “care” is increasingly recognized as a crucial element of social and economic wellbeing, with growing calls for a “care economy” that values unpaid care work and invests in care infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Importance of Care

• What is the significance of the work of Franco Basaglia? Basaglia was a key figure in the Italian psychiatric reform movement,advocating for the closure of asylums and the integration of individuals with mental health conditions into the community.
• Why is it crucial to study care in the context of mental health? Understanding the principles of care-compassion, empathy, and respect-is essential for providing effective and ethical mental health support.
• What role do associations like Libellula AFASP play? These organizations provide crucial support services, advocate for improved mental health policies, and raise awareness about mental health issues.
• How can individuals promote care in their communities? Individuals can promote care by volunteering their time, donating to mental health organizations, and advocating for policies that support mental wellbeing.
• What does the event highlight about the current healthcare system? The event raised points regarding the state of healthcare and the contribution of associations within the system.

What aspects of this event resonated most with you? How can we collectively foster a greater culture of care in our communities?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How does “Della Cura” challenge traditional understandings of social care?

The Core Concept of “Della Cura” – A Deep Dive

Loredana Di Adamo’s “Della Cura” (Of Care), presented by UISP Catanzaro, isn’t simply an artistic expression; it’s a profound exploration of care – not just as a duty or obligation, but as a essential human need and a cornerstone of a thriving society. This multi-faceted project, encompassing [mention project mediums if known – e.g., performance art, installation, workshops], challenges conventional understandings of social care and invites audiences to reconsider their relationship with vulnerability, empathy, and interconnectedness. The work centers around the idea that genuine care requires active participation, reciprocal exchange, and a willingness to acknowledge our shared humanity. It’s a departure from purely transactional models of assistance, focusing instead on the emotional labor and relational ethics inherent in truly caring for another.

UISP catanzaro’s Role & the Broader Context of Social Wellbeing

UISP (Unione Italiana Sport per Tutti) Catanzaro’s decision to host and promote “Della Cura” highlights a growing recognition within the social sport and leisure sector of the importance of holistic wellbeing. Traditionally focused on physical activity,organizations like UISP are increasingly acknowledging the crucial role of mental health,emotional wellbeing,and social inclusion in creating genuinely healthy communities.

* UISP’s Mission Alignment: The project aligns with UISP’s core values of promoting social responsibility, inclusivity, and active citizenship.

* Community Engagement: “Della Cura” serves as a catalyst for dialog and engagement within the Catanzaro community, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the wellbeing of all its members.

* Expanding the Definition of Wellbeing: The presentation pushes the boundaries of what constitutes “wellbeing,” moving beyond purely physical metrics to encompass emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. This resonates with current trends in positive psychology and holistic health.

Deconstructing Traditional Notions of Caregiving

Di Adamo’s work actively deconstructs the often-gendered and hierarchical power dynamics embedded within traditional caregiving roles. It questions the expectation that care is solely the responsibility of women, or that it should be performed selflessly without acknowledging the caregiver’s own needs.

The Burden of Unacknowledged Care

The concept of invisible labor is central to this deconstruction.Much of the emotional and practical work of caregiving goes unseen and unvalued, leading to burnout, resentment, and a perpetuation of inequalities. “Della Cura” aims to make this invisible labor visible, prompting a critical examination of the societal structures that contribute to it. This ties into broader discussions around gender equality and work-life balance.

Reciprocal Care: A Model for enduring Wellbeing

Di Adamo proposes a model of reciprocal care, where both the caregiver and the recipient benefit from the exchange. This isn’t about equal exchange in a transactional sense, but rather about creating a relationship built on mutual respect, empathy, and a shared sense of vulnerability. This approach acknowledges that caring for others can be deeply fulfilling, but only when it’s balanced with self-care and a recognition of one’s own limitations.

Practical Applications & Fostering a Culture of Care

The insights offered by “Della Cura” aren’t limited to the realm of art; they have practical implications for a wide range of fields, including:

1. Healthcare: Re-evaluating patient-centered care to prioritize empathy, active listening, and a holistic understanding of the patient’s needs.
2. Education: Creating more supportive and nurturing learning environments that foster emotional intelligence and social responsibility.
3. Social Work: Shifting from a deficit-based approach to one that emphasizes strengths, resilience, and the importance of building strong social connections.
4. Community Development: Designing initiatives that promote social cohesion, mutual aid, and a sense of collective belonging.

Benefits of Prioritizing Care in Communities

* reduced Social Isolation: Increased emphasis on care fosters stronger social networks and reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation.

* improved Mental Health: A culture of care promotes emotional wellbeing and reduces the stigma associated with mental health challenges.

* increased Civic Engagement: When peopel feel cared for and supported,they are more likely to participate in civic life and contribute to their communities.

* Stronger Social Fabric: Care is the glue that holds societies together,fostering trust,cooperation,and a sense of shared purpose.

Real-World Examples of Care-Focused Initiatives

While “della Cura” is a unique artistic expression, it builds upon a growing body of work exploring the power of care. Examples include:

* The Care Collective (UK): A group of artists, activists, and researchers who explore the political and economic dimensions of care.

* **Mutual