Attachments
Introduction
MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT IN ARMED CONFLICT AND OTHER SITUATIONS OF VIOLENCE
Mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services play a particularly important role during armed conflict and in other situations of violence1 and emergencies. Violence, fear and uncertainty can create chaos and deplete community resources. As a result, people experience psychological distress that impairs their daily functioning and social interaction.
Rates of mental health problems often increase during these periods, and pre-existing disorders may also resurface or be exacerbated by conflict or violence. Although people with mental health disorders constitute a particularly vulnerable group, they are often neglected.
The incidence of psychosocial problems also significantly increases during armed conflict, other situations of violence and emergencies. Exposure to violence, the disruption of social networks, the loss of and/or separation from relatives and friends, deteriorating living conditions, poverty and limited access to support can have both a shortand a long-term impact on the well-being of individuals, families and communities.
In this document, the term “mental health” is used to denote psychological well-being. Mental health interventions aim to improve psychological well-being by reducing levels of psychological distress, improving daily functioning and ensuring effective coping strategies. Such interventions are overseen by a mental health professional and target individuals, families and/or groups.
The term “psychosocial” is used to describe the interconnection between the individual (i.e. a person’s ‘psyche’) and their environment, interpersonal relationships, community and/or culture (i.e. their social context). Psychosocial support is essential for maintaining good physical and mental health and provides an important coping mechanism for people during difficult times. Psychosocial interventions constitute the backbone of any MHPSS response and include a range of social activities designed to foster psychological improvement, such as sharing experiences, fostering social support, awareness-raising and psychoeducation.
Mental health and psychosocial needs often significantly exceed the response capacity of local services. Conflict situations may further strain the already scarce or inadequate resources of health systems, undermining their ability to provide quality care to those who need it the most. Mental health and psychosocial care is often a secondary concern in conflict settings, where initial relief efforts usually focus on more immediate and obvious health issues.