WHO works to strengthen mental health services in Libya in 0the aftermath of Storm Daniel
10 October 2023, Tripoli, Libya – Following the devastation wrought by Storm Daniel, hundreds of thousands of people in eastern Libya are mourning the loss of loved ones, homes, possessions and livelihoods. Tens of thousands more are desperately hoping for news of the nearly 9000 people who remain missing.
WHO estimates that at least 1 in 5 people will suffer from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder in the aftermath of a major emergency like Storm Daniel. Mental health services were one of the top 3 priorities – along with safe water and primary health care services – identified by an interagency assessment team that visited eastern Libya in the early days of the disaster. The need for mental health care is becoming even more acute in the aftermath of the crisis.
Dr Ahmed Zouiten, WHO Representative in Libya, said that mental health services are essential. “Broken bones can be mended, but psychological wounds – which are often invisible – take much longer to heal. We are working with the authorities to make sure that people can obtain basic mental health support in primary health care facilities and community centres. However, some people in acute distress will require specialized psychological and psychiatric care.”
WHO and the health authorities in eastern Libya are working to establish a
