United by a shared experience of displacement and the struggles it entails, twelve South Sudanese refugee women sought solace and support in therapeutic sessions of group interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT-G) offered through a partnership between StrongMinds and the Alliance Forum for Development (AFOD) within the Adjumani settlements.
As they shared their stories, a common theme emerged; the profound impact of food scarcity due to reduced rations on their mental health. One group member recaps, “The weight of not being able to provide sustenance for our families took a toll on our well-being, resulting in feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and anxiety.”
Motivated to alleviate the burden of food scarcity, the group was integrated by AFOD Uganda into livelihood groups where they decided to embark on a journey to cultivate ten acres of land.
“We started growing maize to ensure we had enough food at home, improving our livelihoods, resilience, and self-reliance. Our efforts yielded eleven tons of maize, which became a symbol of empowerment and healing for most of us in the group,” shared Alice Edea a group member.
With improved access to nutritious food, the group’s mental health continues to flourish, with a noticeable decrease in depression levels. This has resulted in increased productivity and overall well-being among members.
“The ability to provide for our families has brought a sense of stability. Feelings of sadness and anxiety have gradually given way to hope, optimism, and a renewed sense of control over our lives,” explained Grace, a thirty-year-old group member. “The harvest reminds me of the times I used to have enough to eat with my family before I became a refugee.”
Within the confines of a refugee settlement, where hope often seems elusive, these heartwarming stories of transformation serve as a huge inspiration to other refugees, according to Deborah Bemba, Embedded Program Officer for StrongMinds Uganda, Adjumani field office.
Their inspiring narratives shed light on the interplay between mental health and food security in refugee communities and have ignited a spark of possibility for many refugees.
“As a group, we hope to grow more food to support our families and sell the surplus as a way to increase household income. In addition, we hope to use the skills acquired to support more women in overcoming depression.”
