ABSTRACT
Objective:
To know the meaning and the implications of the use of crack by women, from their life stories.
Methods:
Qualitative study, like Life Story, developed in a Psychiatric Unit of a hospital in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, from May to August of 2012, using the referential of Daniel Bertaux as methodological support. Six interviews were held with women users of crack.
Results:
Knowledge of the social context of crack consume by women shows a universe of meanings, in which there is a complexity about the phenomenon that goes beyond simplified understandings and preconceived ideas. In addition, the testimony of women unveils suffered realities, permeated by violence, family dysfunction and chemical addiction.
Conclusion:
This research may contribute to the implementation of actions in mental health, based on the needs of the users of crack, allowing a care focused on the social, a tool of transformation of realities.
Keywords:
Psychiatric Nursing; Mental Health; Women; Cocaine; Crack; Illicit Drugs