Afghanistan’s prolonged exposure to conflict, political instability, socio-economic challenges, and cultural norms creates a complex landscape for mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). Limited access to psychosocial services remains a significant concern across the population. The pervasive stigma surrounding mental health discourages people from seeking help, perpetuating a cycle of silence and suffering.
Additionally, high levels of violence, displacement and economic hardship severely impact mental well-being, increasing the need for specialized psychosocial support services. Restrictions on education and employment opportunities further compound these challenges, limiting prospects for personal and community development. Despite these obstacles, targeted efforts are being made to reach affected populations.
International Medical Corps, with support from Première Urgence Internationale (PUI) and funding from the European Union, delivers essential health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and MHPSS services in remote and hard-to-reach areas of Paktika province through four health centers. These efforts aim to help individuals and communities rebuild social structures and restore resilience after emergencies or critical events.
MHPSS services are provided in all four health centers to promote mental health and overall well-being, prevent mental health conditions, and support people affected by adversity, conflict, poverty, disasters and health emergencies. The approach is holistic and culturally sensitive, addressing both emotional well-being and social connectedness to foster recovery and strengthen community support systems.
Wali*, a 34-year-old resident of Garbezhi village in Urgon district, Paktika province, is a devoted father of five—three sons and two daughters. Wali never had the opportunity to pursue higher education, but his determination to learn led him to acquire basic literacy skills from the village mosque’s mullah. This modest achievement became a source of pride for him and a foundation for encouraging his children to seek education and knowledge.
Life for Wali, however, is far from easy. His family’s economic situation is difficult, and he spends most of his days working tirelessly on his farmland to provide for his loved ones. Despite these hardships, he has always believed in the power of education and dreams of a better future for his children.
In recent months, Wali has faced a new challenge—persistent psychological struggles that have begun to erode his motivation. The weight of stress and adversity has left him feeling increasingly hopeless, making it harder for him to maintain the optimism that once drove him forward.
Wali reached out to the Urgon Dara Sub-Health Center (SHC) in a state of severe physical and psychological exhaustion. He appeared hopeless and lacked any motivation to continue with life. Wali had learned about the clinic through local community members and knew that, under the management of International Medical Corps, Urgon SHC offered not only essential health services but also MHPSS.
During his first session with our MHPSS counselor, Wali immediately felt a sense of trust, understanding and safety. He opened up about his struggles, which included loneliness, persistent anger, insomnia, anxiety, forgetfulness, restlessness, obsessive thoughts, feelings of hopelessness and low self-worth. The counselor reassured him that his confidentiality would be fully respected and that his concerns would be met with empathy and dignity.
From that point onward, regular counseling sessions began. In the first session, basic stress-management techniques were introduced. This initial support motivated him to continue attending follow-up sessions. Each session followed a structured plan designed to reduce stress, promote emotional balance and foster self-confidence.
After completing four sessions, Walin showed remarkable improvement.
“I used to live with many psychological problems, but now I understand that these challenges can be managed. I now have confidence in myself, and if I face difficulties again, I know how to manage them effectively.”
— Wali
Wali expressed deep gratitude for International Medical Corps’ services, describing them as a blessing for the community—restoring hope, mental well-being and a positive outlook on life. He also praised the sincerity, kindness and commitment of the mental health team at the Urgon SHC.
Wali’s story underscores the critical role of mental health services in conflict-affected regions. By addressing psychological distress, International Medical Corps helps people regain functionality, strengthen family bonds and contribute positively to their communities, efforts that are vital for rebuilding social structures and promoting long-term stability in Afghanistan.
*Pseudonym
