Mental health in times of crisis: PAHO's humanitarian response in Port-au-Prince's IDP camps

In the face of increasing internal displacement and the threat of cholera, the impact on the mental health of displaced individuals has become a major issue in PAHO/WHO's humanitarian response in Haiti. Last September, a rapid assessment of mental health needs was carried out by the MSPP team with the support of PAHO, enabling the appropriate adaptation of mental health responses for the affected populations.

Since the beginning of October, PAHO has been supporting the MSPP mental health unit in psychosocial support activities in five camps for internally displaced persons, notably at the Lycée Marie Jeanne, Lycée des jeunes filles, École nationale Caroline Chauveau, École nationale d'Aguesseau Lepinasse and Rex Théâtre. This initiative aims to meet the urgent mental health needs of displaced persons, offering a space of support and comfort in a context of great precariousness.

People in serious psychological distress benefit from individual psychological support provided by professional psychologists. These individual sessions are crucial in addressing the specific traumas and stresses experienced by displaced people. At the same time, group sessions are organized for adults and teenagers, aimed at fostering positive adaptation to the crisis situation. These group sessions are essential for creating a sense of community and mutual support among the displaced.

A crucial aspect of this intervention is the specific support given to children. A "child-friendly" space has been set up, offering age-appropriate recreational and psycho-educational activities. These activities aim not only to provide a safe haven for children, but also to help them understand and process their experiences in an environment conducive to their development.

Mental health promotion does not stop at direct intervention. The program also encompasses aspects such as stress management and general well-being measures. Encouraging regular physical activity and maintaining good sleep hygiene is an integral part of efforts to improve the overall well-being of displaced people.

This initiative supported by PAHO/WHO, with financial backing from USAID, highlights the importance of a holistic and proactive approach to mental health in humanitarian and health crisis situations. It demonstrates the effectiveness of rapid intervention tailored to the specific needs of displaced populations, while highlighting the crucial role of mental health in humanitarian responses.