Urgent: Action Against Hunger Expands Critical Mental Health Support in West & Central Africa
Maroua, Cameroon – December 12, 2024 – In a significant development for humanitarian aid, Action Against Hunger is dramatically expanding its mental health services alongside essential food, water, and medical care in West and Central Africa. This breaking news highlights a crucial shift in how aid organizations are responding to the complex needs of populations impacted by conflict, displacement, and food insecurity. The initiative, funded in part by the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO), recognizes that healing from trauma is as vital as physical survival.
Beyond Basic Needs: Addressing the Invisible Wounds of Crisis
For years, humanitarian responses have rightly focused on immediate physical needs. However, the devastating psychological toll of violence, loss, and displacement is often overlooked. Action Against Hunger’s projects – Confluence, RESILAC, and the broader “Crisis Response” initiative – are changing that. They’re integrating mental health and psychosocial support directly into primary healthcare, a move experts say is long overdue. This isn’t simply about adding a therapist to the team; it’s about fundamentally changing the approach to care.
The organization is deploying mobile clinics to remote, often dangerous areas, offering free medical, nutritional, and – crucially – psychological care. These teams, comprised of nurses, midwives, nutritionists, community mobilizers, and dedicated psychosocial workers, are providing a lifeline to those who have lost everything. But the impact goes deeper than individual treatment.
“I Thought I Was the Only One”: The Power of Shared Experience
Mr. T, a 45-year-old internally displaced person fleeing Boko Haram attacks, embodies the transformative power of this approach. Haunted by nightmares, battling fatigue and isolation, and overwhelmed by despair, he initially doubted the effectiveness of psychosocial sessions. “After fleeing Boko Haram attacks, I was tormented by the loss of my loved ones, but thanks to Action Against Hunger, I feel much better,” he shared. “At first, I didn’t believe these sessions could help me, but I realize I’m not alone.”
Through a four-session emotional stabilization program, Mr. T learned coping strategies, found strength in group support, and began to reclaim his life. His story isn’t unique. The program focuses on creating a safe space for individuals to express their emotions, share experiences, and develop resilience. The reduction in his nightmares, improved self-care, and renewed social engagement are testaments to the program’s success.
A Ripple Effect: Empowering Local Healthcare Workers
The impact extends beyond those directly receiving care. Jules Brice Mbida, a humanitarian nurse with Action Against Hunger, initially felt overwhelmed by the immense needs he witnessed. His participation in the RASAM-REN Forum (Network of Mental Health Actors in the Far North Region) – a multi-actor space for exchange and advocacy – proved pivotal. “Before the forum, I did not have a clear understanding of approaches related to mental health,” Mbida explained. “Today, my perception of care has changed. I understand that a patient not only needs medication, but also listening and accompaniment.”
Inspired, Mbida pursued a Master’s degree in mental health, sparking a wave of interest among his colleagues and strengthening local capacity. Amina, another internally displaced person, shared how Mbida’s approach has changed her perspective: “I used to think that talking about my suffering was a weakness. Today, thanks to Mr. Brice and his team, I learned that there are solutions, that taking care of yourself also means taking care of your mind.”
Building a Sustainable System for Mental Health in Crisis Zones
The RASAM-REN Forum is proving to be a catalyst for change, fostering coordination, encouraging training, and advocating for the integration of mental health into public policies. While significant progress has been made, Action Against Hunger acknowledges the immense needs that remain. Systematic integration of mental health services is still limited, and access remains a major challenge.
This initiative isn’t just about providing immediate relief; it’s about building a sustainable system of care that prioritizes the psychological well-being of vulnerable populations. The stories of Mr. T, Jules Brice Mbida, and Amina demonstrate that addressing mental health is not a luxury, but an essential component of lasting healing and collective resilience. The work of Action Against Hunger serves as a powerful model for humanitarian organizations worldwide, demonstrating that true recovery requires a holistic approach that acknowledges and addresses the invisible wounds of crisis.
For more information on Action Against Hunger’s work and how you can support their efforts, visit www.actionagainsthunger.org. Stay updated on breaking news and in-depth analysis at archyde.com.
