New Guidelines To Improve Psychological and Social Assistance in Emergencies

The Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings clearly state that protecting and promoting mental health and psychosocial well-being is the responsibility of all humanitarian agencies and workers. Until now, many people involved in emergency response have viewed mental health and psychosocial well-being as the sole responsibility of psychiatrists and psychologists. "These new IASC guidelines are a significant step towards providing better care and support to people in disaster- and conflict-affected areas worldwide," said Dr Ala Alwan, Assistant Director-General for Health Action in Crises at the World Health Organization. For more information please see Joint News Release.