The policy brief on faith-sensitive mental health and psychosocial support for displaced children, first published in English in 2023, is now accessible in Spanish and Arabic.
In response to the unprecedented global crisis of displaced children, a vital resource has been launched to enhance mental health support tailored to their unique needs. Originally published in English in 2023, the policy brief titled Strengthening Faith-Sensitive Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Children on the Move is now available in both Spanish and Arabic. This significant resource aims to address the urgent need for culturally and faith-sensitive mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) for displaced children.
Recognising that more than 70 million children worldwide are currently displaced, practitioners, policymakers, academics, and faith representatives convened to explore effective ways to support these vulnerable populations. The policy brief is the result of collaborative efforts among members of the Partnership for Religion and Development (PaRD), including Arigatou International, Queen Margaret University, the United States Institute of Peace, and World Vision.
Building Resilience Through Faith-Sensitive Approaches
Displaced and migrating children face unique mental health challenges, including heightened rates of trauma and distress due to exposure to violence and instability. Faith-sensitive MHPSS can play a critical role in mitigating these effects by fostering a sense of belonging and resilience. The policy brief outlines eight key recommendations for enhancing access to MHPSS that respects the faith and cultural backgrounds of affected children, emphasising the importance of community involvement in developing effective interventions.
This release marks the second stage of PaRD’s Fostering Resilience on the Move series, building upon earlier discussions and recommendations focused on integrating faith-sensitive approaches into support frameworks. The results can be found in the booklet, “Faith Sensitive MHPSS to Foster Resilience in Children on the Move.”
By making this vital information accessible in multiple languages, PaRD aims to extend its reach and impact, ensuring that more children can benefit from tailored mental health support.
