Volunteers in the Tawila area of North Darfur State organized a recreational psychosocial support session at the “Dabba Naira” Multi-Purpose Center for internally displaced people (IDPs), with the participation of 628 people from different age groups, including 189 men and 439 women.
The session aimed to alleviate the psychological stress caused by displacement and the humanitarian crisis, promote psychological and social well-being, and strengthen positive interaction and community cohesion through recreational and interactive activities that provided a space for participation and communication.
The session was organized by the “Hope” Organization in partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), with support from the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF).
Mental health specialist Mukhtar Saad told Mashaweer that “such sessions contribute to raising morale, promoting the psychological and social well-being of participants, and strengthening communication and social relationships by providing a safe and supportive space for interaction and participation.”
He added that “psychosocial support activities are an important component of the response to the needs of communities affected by crises and displacement, particularly given the cumulative pressures faced by displaced people.”
Meanwhile, Rasha Nour El-Din, a researcher in international emergency response, told Mashaweer that providing psychosocial support spaces for displaced people is no less important than responding to their material needs, given that prolonged crises leave profound effects on mental health and social relationships.
She emphasized that continuing and expanding such activities can help strengthen the ability of affected communities to adapt and build resilience, while supporting the restoration of social ties and a sense of safety and belonging, particularly among women, children, and the most vulnerable groups.
