Holistic approach to commuity health in post-conflict situation

Abordaje holistico a la salud de la comunidad en situación de post-conflicto

The fragmented mind in post conflict situations arising out of man made or natural disaster needs the help of mental health professionals. Most of our help and rehabilitation processes for such communities is targeted towards material things and physical health, which may give temporary relief, but the fear in the minds and psyches of all who experienced the disaster needs long term definite mental health programs. We, at Indu Health Research Foundation (INDU) used all indigenous ways of healing and took a complete holistic approach to such situations.

Psychotherapy is the only accepted modern tool for such victims (called PTSD victims).Group therapy of 8-10 victims at a time, for periods of about 60-80 minutes per group, at regular intervals of seven days, has helped lot in soothing their fear. A rating scale in vernacular language before the first session and then at every session helps in documenting the changes in different symptoms, in various groups, after counseling by trained counselors (may or may not be professionals). These efforts should be started within 30 days of the incidents and should be continued for about six months. The counselors also teach them various stress releasing exercise including correct sleep hygiene and Relaxation techniques. The other methods successfully applied at various places includes Yoga & meditation, Mass prayers (Sacred Fire), Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Homeopathic medicines, Ayurvedic medicines and Women participation by handicrafts. Each of these are detailed in the full paper with the indications and usage of individual methods in different situations.

Community participation is enhanced by Talk and a poster presentation after identifying the local community leader as a facilitator for these long term approaches to mental health in post conflict situations.