One in six people in Bangladesh report that they are currently tackling mental health issues.
Mental health is largely ignored in Bangladesh, due to the gap in general understanding about the issue, compounded by societal taboos. Research suggests that 92% of identified patients do not seek professional help. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation significantly.
BRAC is integrating mental health in its primary healthcare services, to provide people with community-based, culturally-relevant and ethical mental health support.
NUMBERS
252,523
people reached through trained para-counsellors
1,696
frontline staff trained on basic psychosocial support, empathetic behaviour and rapport building skills
444
trained para-counsellors working in the community to address mental health challenges
66
psychologists training and supporting frontline workers to tackle advanced cases
17% of adults in Bangladesh live with mental health issues. We must cater to the rising need of mental health support by mainstreaming appropriate services within the existing health system. Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Community mental health is really about what we all need when we are faced with life’s challenges - compassion for ourselves and each other, social connections, and opportunities for contribution and growth. Mental distress can be isolating, so knowing you are not alone and that you are valued and listened to is what helps people and communities to achieve positive mental health and well-being, now and in the future.
VIDEOS
WHAT WE DO
Philosophy and approach
Espouse, practise and advocate for culturally-congruent, ethical and respectful mental health services.
Promotion and prevention
Inform, empower and support people by providing accurate information about mental health and wellbeing, offering needs-based, community-led mental health interventions, monitored through rigorous processes.
Expertise and competency
Maintain the highest standards of practitioner competency, and of mental health interventions and services.
Public protection
Maintain clear, transparent, and ethical safeguarding processes and risk management practices at all levels, in recognition of the vulnerabilities inherent in mental distress.
HOW WE DO IT
Staff sensitisation
Staff trained on effective communication, relationship building and empathy, to work responsibly and respectfully with people tackling mental health challenges.
Strengthening competency
Frontline staff and para-counsellors equipped with psychosocial support skills to ensure community engagement.
Mainstreaming mental health
Mental health integrated in BRAC’s development programmes, to ensure effective coverage.
Partnership
Collaboration to be ensured with the Government of Bangladesh and other external stakeholders to address the current and future mental health needs of Bangladesh.
WHY IT WORKS
Integrity
Transparency and accountability in all mental health interventions and service delivery, underpinned by compassionate, open, respectful and sustainable approaches.
Impact
Culturally-congruent and inclusive mental health activities, building on evidence from local and national research and examples.
Influence
Advocacy and dissemination of accurate and non-stigmatising information to encourage awareness of and accessibility to mental health services.
PEOPLE
“I really like practicing the breathing exercises. They helped me a lot to calm my anxiety and restlessness, and helped me find my own strength” - a mother receiving mental health support
“I feel light, after speaking my mind. Thank you for listening to me so attentively. I learnt a lot about anger management from you. I can now understand myself better. I also have better control of my anger now, and I am spending good quality time with my family.” - a father receiving mental health support
“Following her [Shantir Apa]’s words benefited me greatly. I shared my experiences with others, I told them that I have an apa. She taught me so many good things. I found peace following her words. She is like my mother. I am getting better by following her advice. I appreciate her efforts.” - Adolescent receiving psychosocial support
STAFF
"We did not call it mental health, but over the past 49 years we connected with communities, supported and gave people hope, and ensured their dignity. It is a moment of celebration that we have been able to build on our work and articulate the first Mental Health Strategy for BRAC"
- Dr Erum Mariam, Executive Director, BRAC Institute of Educational Development, BRAC Bangladesh
- Dr Erum Mariam, Executive Director, BRAC Institute of Educational Development, BRAC Bangladesh
"When the time comes, we all need someone to listen to us without judgement. Para-counsellors are those allies - whom we can talk to, share our pain and suffering, express our anger or grief, and finally find some peace of mind."
- Dr Morseda Chowdhury, Director, BRAC Health, Nutrition and Population Programme, BRAC Bangladesh
- Dr Morseda Chowdhury, Director, BRAC Health, Nutrition and Population Programme, BRAC Bangladesh
