Mental health and psychosocial support

Eritrean refugees perform at the JRS talent show in Mai Aini refugee camp. — Eritrean refugees perform traditional dances at the JRS talent show in Mai Aini refugee camp, Ethiopia. (Denis Bosnic/Jesuit Refugee Service)

JRS’s priority for 2025–2029 is to improve the mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of forcibly displaced people by prioritising community based and community led initiatives.

Displacement and Mental Health

Displacement often follows significant hardship, including experiences of violence, loss, and insecurity. These challenges, combined with daily stressors of life away from home, can have a serious impact on mental health. In these situations, it is normal to experience distress, but many people recover when their basic needs are met, and their social connections rebuilt. Others require additional support to heal and adapt to the new realities, communities, and way of life.

JRS’s Approach to MHPSS

JRS offers holistic and compassionate Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services grounded in the Jesuit tradition of cura personalis – care for the whole person – and aligned with humanitarian standards. We accompany individuals and communities with humility and respect for their dignity, culture, and faith. Our approach is participatory, recognising the strengths and capacities of communities, and supporting all members to play an active role in their own recovery and wellbeing.

JRS’s MHPSS SERVICES

JRS delivers a wide range of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support services, including:

Community activities that strengthen connection and social cohesion, such as sports, arts, music, and cultural initiatives.
Social and emotional learning in schools and community centres to reduce stress and build safety.
Support for parents, teachers, and caregivers to provide nurturing environments for children and young people.
Psychological first aid, counselling, and safe spaces for individuals and groups, including survivors of violence.
Referrals to specialist mental health services when more advanced care is needed.

MHPSS is also woven into education, livelihoods, child protection and other JRS’s programmes to ensure the best possible care for the people we serve.

At JRS, we believe recovery is possible when people are given the tools and support they need. By investing in community-led initiatives, forcibly displaced people can heal and nurture hope for the future.