held a three-day meeting on the "Before, During, and After Emergencies" document review in Bo. The meeting, which started on the 10th and will end on the 13th of December, 2024, aims to strengthen the capacity of mental health professionals in providing psychosocial support during emergencies. This initiative is designed to ensure that individuals affected by emergencies receive the necessary mental health care and support to cope with the aftermath of traumatic events. The document review will cover key strategies, best practices, and guidelines for mental health professionals to effectively respond to emergencies. Participants were divided into four groups to discuss how to adopt these strategies, best practices, and guidelines for mental health professionals in their respective regions or organizations. The workshop is being held at the Njala Venue in Bo City.
Dr. Carol Labor, entrusted by His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, developed the guidelines and is the lead facilitator for the program. She is supported by Dr. Abdul Mbawah, Ben Koroma, and Patrick Zombo, who are facilitating discussions and dialogues between the groups to share insights and experiences. The goal is to create a comprehensive plan for improving mental health support during emergencies on a global scale. The discussions will focus on identifying potential challenges and barriers to implementing these strategies, as well as brainstorming innovative solutions. By collaborating and sharing insights, participants aim to develop a unified approach that can be tailored to diverse settings and populations, ultimately enhancing mental health outcomes in emergency situations in Sierra Leone.
The "Before, During, and After Emergencies" document is a critical component of this initiative. It outlines the necessary steps and considerations for mental health professionals to effectively support individuals during different phases of an emergency. The document includes strategies for preparedness, immediate response, and long-term recovery, ensuring a holistic approach to mental health care in crisis situations.
Dr. Carol Labor has made significant contributions to the field of mental health both within and outside Sierra Leone. Her work includes developing comprehensive mental health programs, conducting research on mental health issues, and advocating for better mental health policies. Dr. Labor's expertise and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the new National MHPSS Guidelines, which aim to standardize and improve mental health support across the country. Her leadership in this program is expected to have a lasting impact on the mental health landscape in Sierra Leone and beyond.
Public Relations National Public Health Agency (NPHA)
Comments