Advancing Mental Health and Psychosocial Support: Progress Report from the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement
The Movement has a special focus on integrating MHPSS into emergency responses, addressing the holistic well-being of individuals and communities affected by conflicts, disasters, and humanitarian crises. This report builds on data collected through a Movement-wide survey conducted in 2023, as a follow-up to previous surveys carried out in 2019 and 2021. It follows up on the implementation of the Movement's 2019 policy on addressing mental health and psychosocial needs, and the key Resolution on MHPSS reached at the 33rd International Movement Conference.
The 2023 progress report outlines the significant strides made in MHPSS activities across the Movement, including National Societies (NS), the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). A total of 163 NS, IFRC, and ICRC entities participated in the survey, contributing to a comprehensive dataset that allows for a comparative analysis of MHPSS advancements.
Key Highlights from the report:
- Emergency Response: The report underscores a significant advancement, with 93% of National Societies, the IFRC, and the ICRC actively providing MHPSS activities during emergencies. This surpasses the 90% reported in 2019, highlighting an increase in the Movement's capacity to respond effectively to critical mental health needs in times of crises.
- Training Initiatives: The Movement demonstrates a commitment to enhancing capacity on MHPSS, with a notable increase in the number of staff and volunteers trained in basic psychosocial support. The report highlights a continuous rise in training initiatives, emphasizing the Movement's dedication to building capacity.
- Increased Recognition: The report highlights a significant increase in the acknowledgment of the Movement's role as a provider of MHPSS by national authorities. Over two-thirds (65%) of respondent NS are now mentioned in national public health or disaster management plans, marking a substantial rise from 27% in 2021.
The progress report reflects the Movement's dedication to enhancing MHPSS activities globally. As challenges persist, the Movement calls for continued efforts and investment to support the mental well-being of individuals and communities affected by crises and emergencies. The detailed findings and recommendations from the report contribute to shaping the Movement's future strategies in MHPSS. For more detailed insights, the full report can be accessed in English below, and will be available in French, Arabic, and Spanish in the coming days on the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement's official website.
Mental Health Matters:
Progress Report on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Activities within the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
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