Supporting women’s mental health in the PNG Highlands

Women, with distinct mental and physical health needs, are significantly impacted during, and after, tribal fights. This year, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is providing support to women in these areas who are under stress due to violence through the Community Group Support facilitators. Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Officer, Rebecca Piam, gives an insight into the program.

Based at the ICRC office in Mt Hagen, Rebecca has been working with the joint MHPSS and Health program for over two years, and has watched it grow from strength to strength, emphasizing that, “Whilst some people in the community are resilient, others may not be able to cope and function well daily. It is those who may be experiencing difficulties trying to cope with issues of life that require support.”