Mental Health among informal settlers in Nepal

Strengthening Psychosocial Wellbeing Among Vulnerable Communities in Earthquake-Affected Jajarkot district in Karnali Province

 Jajarkot, a district characterized by long-standing socioeconomic vulnerability, was hit by a devastating earthquake on 2023. On the wake of the earthquake, the already vulnerable population had to cope with the loss of their properties and many of them had their family members, injured or dead. With multiple fatalities and destruction of properties, communities in Jajarkot continue to face heightened physical, social, and psychosocial vulnerability. On face of such devastating situation, PHASE Nepal has been relentlessly working in the earthquake affected region of Jajarkot to support the health and well-being of the people.

Our field staff working in communities in Barekot and Kushe Rural Municipalities in Jajarkot in Karnali province of Nepal have been providing training to the FCHVs (Female Community Health Volunteers), teachers and traditional healers in the community regarding the importance of mental health and psychosocial counselling training. These groups are the key change agents in the community who have influence on health-seeking behavior of the community.

Since the inception of the project in 2024, PHASE Nepal has successfully completed multiple training session for 73 FCHVs, 160 Mothers from different mothers’ groups, 154 traditional healers and 150 teachers from different government schools. The trainings focused on identification of need of psychosocial support and implementation of community based support strategies, with particular emphasis on psychological health issues caused by the earthquake and loss of property families and loved ones.

 Teachers who participated in the training shared;

“Mental health is a very sensitive topic, and the knowledge gained from this training will help us approach these issues with the utmost care, confidentiality, and respect for students’ privacy.”

Another teacher emphasized the role teachers can have in student’s learnings and well-being;

“As teachers, we are responsible not only for academic learning but also for students’ overall wellbeing. Approaching students with empathy and a positive attitude, such as a warm smile, is essential. This training has been a valuable opportunity for us, and we commit to applying these learnings in our classrooms and in our interactions with students.”

Similarly, FCHVs also reported increase in confidence in providing basic counselling services in the community.

“After participating in this training, we feel more confident in providing basic counselling support to community members. We will share and apply the knowledge we have gained to raise awareness about psychosocial wellbeing in our communities. We are grateful for this training opportunity.”

 We are thankful to ASIA and everyone whose support has made it possible to expand services in remote areas of Nepal. Your support helps us work with vulnerable communities and improve their health and wellbeing.