Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) has become a growing priority in emergencies and disasters not only for the Asia-Pacific region but globally. As disasters continue to hit countries, there is a growing need and realization of addressing and improving the neglected sector of psychological support of populations at risk. Addressing the psychological needs of populations affected by crises has become a prominent concern in international humanitarian assistance. This is particularly the case of the COVID-19 pandemic that National Societies have been responding to when looking into the holistic needs stemmed from the outbreak, including mental health and psychosocial support.

Upon the positive experience and synergy brought about from the collaboration among International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Asia Pacific Regional Office, IFRC Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, and Hong Kong Red Cross branch since 2016, discussions has been going on on how to enhance the impact of this collaborative effort to benefit the progress of developing MHPSS in the region. From these discussions, The Asia Pacific MHPSS Learning and Training Collaborative (The Collaborative) was born, and from May 2021 started serving the region in the area of MHPSS and supporting the implementation of global strategies and a joint plan of action. The Collaborative also explores opportunities to collaborate with partner National Societies and external partners to improve the quality of services and support the implementation of PFA for All in the region.

Contribution of an Asia Pacific Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Training and Learning Collaborative

The primary task of the AP MHPSS Training and Learning Collaborative is to enable and support National Societies to implement psychosocial support programs and activities in line with IFRC MHPSS policy and Guidelines.

The AP MHPSS Training and Learning Collaborative will support National Societies in Asia Pacific region through:

• Capacity Building
• Assistance in Emergencies
• Knowledge Management and Information Sharing
• Resource Mobilization for the Collaborative’s sustainability

If you wish to know more or stay updated on the collaborative and the MHPSS activities in Asia Pacific, please check out our monthly newsletter.

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