Implications of Not Addressing Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Needs in Conflict Situations

Orrnert, Anna (2019). Implications of Not Addressing Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Needs in Conflict Situations.

URL: https://www.gov.uk/research-for-development-output...

Abstract

This review of existing literature indicates that there are a number of significant implications of not addressing mental health and psychosocial (MHPSS) needs of children, youth, and adults in conflict settings.

Mental health consequences of war are by now fairly well documented (see for example Murthy and Lakshminarayana, 2006; Werner, 2012; Betancourt et al., 2014; Jordans et al., 2016). Children are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of conflict, and mental disorders resulting from war-related trauma can hamper development and lead to decreased functioning in adulthood (Werner, 2012). Launched in 2016, the new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflect recognition by the global development community of the significance of mental health problems, particularly in childhood or youth, as leading causes of problems throughout the life course (Brown et al., 2016). These new SDGs acknowledge mental health and well-being as key components of overall health and aim to reduce children’s exposure to violence and other adversities (Interagency Expert Group on SDG Indicators, 2016).

This review examines the potential implications of not addressing MHPSS needs resulting from conflict throughout the life course, including on longer-term mental and physical health, communities and families (including intergenerational effects), and overall human development (including education and participation in the workforce).

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