This is an interpretative and comprehensive study that aimed to investigate ways of coping used by patients with phobic-anxious disorders, attended at the Centro de Atenção Psicossocial I, of the municipality of Queimadas, state of Paraíba, Brazil, in the period from October to December 2010. The empirical data were obtained through interviews and subjected to content analysis. From this material were extracted the main themes that formed the thematic category called CAPS I as a space to expression of subjectivity, and the thematic axis: Recognition of the illness; Loneliness and isolation; and Family as the primary point of support. The results showed that, while adhering to treatment, users began to recover their self-esteem, strengthen bonds and to deal with the bio psychosocial symptoms. We emphasize the importance of the affective dimension in the encounter between professionals, patients and families. It can be concluded that the humanized practice ensures and stimulates the integration between the work processes and the users' life projects.
Mental Health Services; Psychological Distress; Family Relationships