Mental health is a critical aspect of well-being, and it is especially important for refugees who have experienced trauma and displacement. AFOD Uganda is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that works to address the needs of conflict-affected populations, including refugees.
AFOD Uganda has made significant contributions to addressing mental health challenges among refugees and host communities especially Adjumani district. In this blog post, we would like to share our contribution in promoting mental health, supporting psychological well-being, and restoring hope for refugees in Uganda.
Mental Health Awareness and Education
In our work, we recognize the importance of mental health awareness among refugees and the surrounding communities. Because many refugees have faced the trauma associated with war, loss of lives and loved ones, many need awareness on what they are experiencing and advise to seek help when needed. We realized that many are suffering because of knowledge gap. Through our community outreaches, the organization raises awareness about mental health issues, normalizes discussions around mental well-being, and addresses the stigma often associated with mental health challenges. By educating refugees, community members, and local leaders, we strive to foster understanding and empathy while promoting access to mental health services.
Psychosocial Support Program
AFOD Uganda, with support from StrongMinds Uganda, provides psycho-social support program (Group Interpersonal Therapy (IPT-G)) to refugees, recognizing the unique psychological needs and trauma experienced by individuals forced to flee their homes. These sessions focus on supporting community members especially women overcome depression. By creating safe spaces for experience sharing, AFOD Uganda helps refugees process their experiences, build resilience, and develop coping mechanisms. These interventions play a crucial role in promoting psychological well-being and supporting the healing process.
Community Integration and Empowerment
AFOD Uganda recognizes the importance of community integration and empowerment for the mental well-being of refugees. We facilitate livelihood programs and income-generating initiatives, which empower refugees to rebuild their lives and regain a sense of purpose and dignity. By addressing socioeconomic challenges, AFOD Uganda reduces stressors that can negatively impact mental health and promotes a supportive environment for refugees to thrive.
Research
We pride in supporting in research on mental health. In 2021, with support from Adjumani district local government, we conducted a baseline survey that contributed to the national statics on mental health focusing on refugee areas. View story
Referral and Collaboration
AFOD Uganda collaborates with local health facilities, mental health professionals, and organizations to facilitate referrals and access to specialized mental health services for refugees. By establishing partnerships, AFOD Uganda ensures that individuals with severe mental health conditions can receive comprehensive care beyond the organization’s scope. This collaborative approach helps bridge gaps in mental health services and ensures a continuum of care for refugees in need.
Mental health Rehabilitation Project
On 11th November 2022, AFOD Uganda launched its fundraising campaign for constructing the first of its kind mental health rehabilitation facility in Adjumani district to offer psychosocial support to the refugees and neighboring communities. The facility is intended to offer both psychosocial support and economic empowerment training for those that have recovered for safe integration into their communities. This effort is still ongoing as we continue to fundraise for this Rehab facility.
You can be part of this journey by supporting this effort through in-kind and cash. For financial support, use this link.
All our efforts in addressing the psychological needs and challenges faced by displaced populations. Through all the above, we restore hope, heal minds, and enable refugees to rebuild their lives with resilience and strength.
AFOD Uganda- Working together to empower communities.
