N’DJAMENA, Chad —
Mental health remains one of the most neglected aspects of humanitarian response in Chad, as conflict and displacement continue to take a heavy psychological toll on vulnerable populations.
Aid organizations operating in the country report a surge in cases of trauma, anxiety, and depression among refugees and internally displaced persons, yet mental health services remain severely underfunded and understaffed.
“People have lost homes, livelihoods, and loved ones, but there is little support to help them cope with the emotional impact,” a humanitarian worker said.
Despite growing recognition of the importance of mental health in crisis settings, experts say it is still often treated as a secondary concern, overshadowed by immediate needs such as food, shelter, and security.
Analysts warn that failure to address mental health could have long-term consequences for social stability and recovery in Chad, as unaddressed trauma continues to affect individuals and communities.
They are calling for increased investment and integration of mental health services into broader humanitarian efforts, emphasizing that true recovery must include both physical and psychological healing.
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