40K for Mental Health
Join us in continuing to provide crucial mental health services to those who need it in Bajhang, West Nepal. Your support can make a difference in the lives of over a hundred people, grappling with various forms of mental health disorders.
There are myths, misconceptions and stigma related to mental health disorders in Nepal. UMN is working with communities to educate people and help those who need support to come out of mental health conditions.
UMN’s mental health project organised the first ever mental health camp in Bajhang in February 2023 (see photos). Over a hundred people suffering from different forms of mental disorders were identified and they received essential care, counselling, and medication.
Donate today to ensure that essential care, counselling, and medication reach those who need it most!
How can you contribute?
Cost of 1 counselling session (from a local counsellor) approx. USD 4
Cost of medicines for a month per person approx. USD 11
Cost of having a psychiatrist visit an area / hospital approx. USD 90 per day (excluding travel)
Read their stories of change post-treatment
Wellness revival
Dhanu Damai, from Duwali village, Bajhang, faced psychosocial issues due to financial constraints and unemployment. Embarrassed and fearing societal judgment, he hesitated to seek help. For three to four years, these problems persisted as he grappled to fulfill his role as the head of the household. He experienced symptoms like isolation, loss of appetite, and insomnia, leading his family to spend savings on traditional healers. Later, volunteers trained through UMN’s Mental Health project identified him and helped him to access treatment. Initially hesitant, he agreed to taking counselling, medication, and joining a psychosocial support group, significantly improving his health and making him feel that he isn’t alone. He has now been restored to a fulfilling life, engaging in daily activities and actively participating in his community. Dhanu earns for his family through tailoring work, supports others with mental health issues, and advocates for timely intervention and community support.
Nar Bahadur Bohara
52, Bajhang
When I was 17, I was on my way to work as a wage labourer when my uncle who accompanied me passed away suddenly and I was forced to spend the entire night alone. I also had to perform death ritual alone and returned home carrying the body. This traumatic incident hit me hard, and I started suffering mentally. My symptoms worsened, leading to isolation and unsuccessful traditional healing attempts. Treatment in India helped but cost was a concern. In 2022, UMN introduced a mental health project in Bajhang. Initially resistant, I eventually sought help at the health post, where my condition improved with medication, counselling, and income support. Now, I lead a normal life, engaged in goat rearing, grateful for the community support and hopeful for a better future.
As news of Nar Bahadur’s successful treatment spread, other individuals with mental health issues began visiting the health facility. The project supported them by procuring essential medicines and providing counselling services.
As news of Nar Bahadur’s successful treatment spread, other individuals with mental health issues began visiting the health facility. The project supported them by procuring essential medicines and providing counselling services.
Rajesh*
17, Bajhang
I was a disciplined student from a modest background in Bajhang, excelled academically until I moved to the capital city, Kathmandu for better education opportunities. Away from home, I fell into addiction of smoking, drinking, which led to insomnia, decreased appetite, and strained relationships with family. Concerned, my father sought help from traditional healers, but my condition worsened. Thanks to a local group’s intervention, I received support from a psychosocial worker and was taken to the nearby Dahabagar health post. After assessment and collaborative efforts of Dahabagar and financial support of UMN’s mental health project, I was then referred to a mental hospital in the city where I received treatment. After two weeks, significant improvement was noted, and I resumed my normal life, attending college regularly. My father, initially relying on superstition, now expresses gratitude for giving me a fresh start.
* name changed
* name changed
Donate to UMN’s Mental Health Appeal
$1,328 of $40,000 raised
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Thank you for your interest in bringing Fullness of life for all, in a transformed Nepali society through UMN’s mental health work!
Please be part of healing those who are battling in silence.
Keep them going!
Questions?
Email: communications@umn.org.np
Contact Form: umn.org.np/contact
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