Specialised Mental Health Care for Children in Humanitarian Settings: Integrating Local and Community-Owned Approaches

Wars, armed conflict, climate crises, disasters and other humanitarian emergencies can threaten the mental health, wellbeing and development of children. Lack of specialised services for children with advanced mental health needs in humanitarian settings led to a large treatment gap. The Global Child Protection Area of Responsibility and Inter-Agency Standing Committee Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (IASC MHPSS) Reference Group commissioned this study to understand support pathways for children with advanced mental health needs in contexts with limited specialised services. A descriptive case study design across five humanitarian settings was used to (1) identify common themes in the implementation of specialised mental health services, (2) understand informal care pathways and (3) explore the integration of mental health psychosocial support (MHPSS) across sectors. Between 15 and 18 key informants were chosen at each country site for individual interviews. Interviews were conducted with global humanitarian MHPSS leaders and clinicians, child protection actors and community members. Results revealed common mental health issues and informal pathways children with serious mental health conditions rely on when services are limited. Cross-sectoral partnerships and collaboration with traditional and religious healers are vital components to strengthening local support for children’s mental health needs in humanitarian settings