More than three months after the flash floods and landslides of August 26, needs in Nepal remain high. In Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading, around 90,000 people were affected, about 17,000 of them children. Roads are being repaired and homes rebuilt. But the impact of the floods goes beyond destroyed houses and damaged infrastructure. Since then, many people no longer feel safe: in their homes, at night, or when it rains. The experience lingers. For many, it is hard to regain a sense of their own safety.
When Specialists Are Lacking
Access to psychosocial support is limited in many parts of Nepal. There are only a few psychologists, and many people in the affected villages find it difficult to reach such services. So people in distress turn to teachers, social workers and health staff. Kamala is a social worker in Bidur in Nuwakot District. “Our training was very basic,” she says. “When the flood came, we were facing people who had lost everything, and we realized we needed more knowledge.”
Knowledge That Lasts
This is exactly where OlamAid comes in, working together with the Central Welfare Board of Jews in Germany (ZWST). Together with local partners, OlamAid has trained more than 100 professionals from 15 institutions in Psychological First Aid. They learn how to listen to people in distressing situations, calm them and give them support. Self-care and burnout prevention are also part of the training. “Thanks to OlamAid, I now have more knowledge and confidence in my work,” says Kamala. “The training helps me not only at work but also personally. Exhaustion is widespread right now, and I recognize the signs earlier and take better care of myself.” The trained professionals work in emergency shelters, schools and community centers.
Putting Mental Health at the Center
Even as houses are rebuilt and roads repaired, the emotional impact of the floods often remains. That is why OlamAid and ZWST, together with local partners, plan to further expand psychosocial support in Nepal. In the coming year, community spaces will be created where people can receive support. Direct psychosocial services for people affected by the floods are also planned. Particular attention will be given to people who may face additional barriers to accessing support, including women, children, people with disabilities, Dalit communities and families in remote villages.
Psychosocial support remains important long after a flood. It can help people process what they have been through and regain a greater sense of safety in their daily lives.
