Three health centers in the territories of Djugu and Irumu in Ituri now benefit from a mental health and psycho-social service. The head of the ICRC sub-delegation in Bunia, Frederik Sostheim, made the announcement during the celebration of World Mental Health Day on October 10.
The ICRC has set up these services to care for people affected by mental disorders in this region plagued by armed conflict. Indeed, the stress generated by the persistence of these conflicts is one of the factors causing mental disorders.
For Frederik Sostheim, this service constitutes further support from the ICRC for the National Mental Health Program:
“Thanks to ICRC programs in support of the National Mental Health Program. The health and psycho-social service is now available at the health centers of Rubingo, Tchabi, Nyankunde Kilo and at the physical rehabilitation services of Rwankole in Bunia. Armed conflicts cause psychological after-effects on people affected by the consequences of the violence they so often witness. Due to several vulnerability factors including the lack of clear, reliable and credible information on mental health, many people are forced to remain in deep silence at the risk of seeing their health deteriorate every day.
Frederik Sostheim, head of the ICRC sub-delegation in Buni adds:
“In addition to referring affected people to appropriate structures, you are reinforced in your role of approaching them, listening to them, and conducting interviews with them, while preserving their safety and dignity,” he specifies.
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