Afghan children and adolescents: The burden of poor mental health in contexts of widespread poverty, social inequality and persistent violence

In Afghanistan, the burden of poor mental health arises in contexts of widespread poverty, social inequality, and persistent violence. Generations of Afghans were born during the conflict, and some never knew peace. Children make up more than half (57%) of the population in need of emergency humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan. Recent assessments indicate that more than a third of children have been exposed to psychological distress due to the loss of family and community members and the constant risk of death and injury. Children and teens are struggling with anxieties and fears, desperately in need of mental health support. The lack of social support manifested itself in various forms of suffering in both children and adolescents. The quality of the environment where children and adolescents grow up shapes their well-being and development.

Automated summary

In Afghanistan, poor mental health is prevalent due to widespread poverty, social inequality, and ongoing violence. A significant percentage of the population in need of humanitarian assistance are children, many of whom have been exposed to psychological distress. The lack of social support leads to suffering among children and adolescents, and the quality of their environment plays a crucial role in their well-being and development.