In the historic city of Herat, the third largest city in Afghanistan, the scars of war are not only physical and economic but deeply psychological. Herat has been a region long marked by significant conflicts, such as the brutal suppression of the 1979 Herat uprising.

Impact of war on mental health

Years of conflict have left residents grappling with the emotional toll of ongoing violence, creating a tense atmosphere that challenges their daily lives. As a result, mental health issues have emerged as one of the most critical concerns in the region.

The emotional cost of war in Herat is immense. Displacement, trauma from loss, and the constant fear of violence have left many people struggling with anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress. For individuals like local resident Safiullah*, now aged 30, these emotional scars are profound.

Safiullah recalls the first sounds of conflict that echoed throughout the city: “I felt that the world was no longer as it once was. That overwhelming sense of uncertainty changed a deep part of my being.” His words reflect the profound emotional toll that war has on individuals, leaving them with a constant sense of fear and anxiety.

Safiullah’s story, however, is not one of total despair. He has found ways to adapt and cope with the anxiety and insecurity around him.

His resilience is a testament to human strength in the face of adversity. Yet, this emotional fortitude is not always enough. Many residents of Herat struggle with long-term mental health issues, with limited access to psychological support and treatment.

Current support systems

The Afghan healthcare system is facing severe challenges, with many facilities closing due to funding shortages. Access to medicine is inconsistent, and the Taliban’s policies, including bans on women’s education and medical training, exacerbate the crisis.

In response to the growing mental health crisis, some local institutions and charities have begun offering psychological counselling and educational sessions. For example, UNHCR (the United Nations’ refugee agency) offers a safe space for women, girls, men and boys to confidentially discuss their issues with trained professionals.

However, these efforts remain limited, and there is a significant gap in comprehensive mental health programmes. The region’s lack of resources, combined with a shortage of trained professionals, makes it difficult to provide adequate care.