The psychological consequences of experiences of violence are among the main reasons why people struggle to participate in the development of their societies. In addition to war-related violence, gender-based violence is a major challenge in Lebanon.
The project strengthens the mental health of people affected by violence and helps to break cycles of violence. It contributes to Lebanon’s reform efforts in the areas of primary health care, mental health, and gender equality.
Beneficiaries include Lebanese citizens as well as structurally disadvantaged populations such as refugees, migrants, people with substance use problems, and internally displaced persons. At the national level, the project strengthens the capacities of professional associations (psychologists, nurses, journalists) and institutions (army, vocational training centers). Members of these institutions improve their work by learning how to provide psychosocial support to affected individuals and to consider their specific needs. They also acquire the skills to intervene safely and at an early stage when they witness violence in everyday life. Sustainability is ensured by integrating the project content into the institutions’ long-term training programs.
At the community level, the project collaborates with two primary health care centers and civil society initiatives. In cooperation with the National Mental Health Programme, it develops a scalable model for integrated care in the areas of gender-based violence, substance use, and mental health, focusing on service quality, staff qualifications, and barriers to access. Complementing this, it works with civil society initiatives to implement preventive activities aimed at reducing violence and social tensions.