October 10, 2024 (KHARTOUM) – The Trauma Recovery Organization – Sudan (TRO-Sudan) on Thursday sounded alarm over a deepening mental health crisis fuelled by the country's devastating 18-month war and called for increased international support. 'The situation is alarming,' reads a statement extended to Sudan Tribune. 'The conflict has shattered Sudan's already fragile mental health system. Hospitals and healthcare workers have been targeted, leaving vulnerable groups – children, mothers, and those with pre-existing conditions – without access to vital care, ' added the group. The war has forced 10.9 million people from their homes within Sudan, while another 2.2 million have sought refuge in neighbouring countries. TRO-Sudan highlighted the plight of those experiencing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), kidnappings, and inhumane treatment, stressing the need for targeted mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). The organization called on international, regional, and local partners to prioritize mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). This means integrating these vital services into all humanitarian aid and emergency response efforts. The aid group stressed the urgent need to boost resources to ensure access to medication, psychosocial support, and trained mental health professionals, particularly in areas with high concentrations of internally displaced persons. To guarantee the long-term …
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