On the Edge review gripping study of France's overstretched mental health system
Briefly

In Beaujon hospital's psychiatric ward, Dr. Jamal Abdel-Kader serves as the sole psychiatrist amid constrained resources and overwhelming patient needs. His compassionate approach tackles the individual struggles of patients, emphasizing that their issues are symptomatic of broader societal neglect. He engages in creative therapy that includes literature to foster connection and healing. The film captures the emotional toll of mental illness on patients and healthcare providers alike, revealing how systemic shortcomings hinder effective treatment while underscoring the importance of human connection and care in such settings.
Dr. Jamal Abdel-Kader, the only staff psychiatrist, navigates through a crisis-ridden psychiatric ward in Paris, providing individualized care amidst overwhelming challenges.
The documentary reveals the structural issues in mental health treatment in France, highlighting how patients' struggles represent symptoms of an indifferent society.
Creative therapy sessions in the hospital, where patients study Moliere and Shakespeare, add a unique dimension to the medically focused treatment approach.
Overworked physicians experience similar loneliness to their patients, reflecting the systemic inadequacies in support from the state.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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