Mental health help for people affected by war

In Jordan, the number of people diagnosed with mental disorders (mostly anxiety and depression) has risen by 279.8% since 1990*. Our new project is providing care and support for those whose mental health has been affected by war or trauma.

A programme of mental health support

Improving access to mental health care has become a key priority in Jordan. As part of our growing work in this country, we’ve established a mental health programme called Mind in Focus.

Established in 2024, it’s a programme of 10 group sessions led by qualified therapists.

It’s especially for people who have been affected by war or abuse. The concept is to create “a safe and nurturing space where attendees can explore their emotions, enhance coping skills, and build resilience”.

Each group of women (or men) participates in discussions and activities designed to improve their emotional wellbeing, stress management, self-esteem, and relationships. The idea is to empower our participants to face their challenges with confidence, building stronger partnerships, friendships, and parenting skills.

Khadija’s story

“You didn’t just fix me — you fixed my entire family.”

We talked to one of the beneficiaries of Mind in Focus. Khadija, a Sudanese mother living in Jordan, has been affected by past trauma – a weight that makes her daily responsibilities much more difficult.

Like many mothers, Khadija is a supreme multi-tasker, caring for children with disabilities while also earning an income from her home sewing machine. But underlying frustrations had been causing a strain on her marriage and a toll on her mental health.

We invited Khadija to join our 10-week support programme with 14 other women, where she would find the space to talk, heal, and bond.

After the final session, Khadija was very moved by the progress she had made.

“It’s like you took everything inside me, washed it, dried it, ironed it, and folded it before putting it back inside.”

She told us that the programme would have a lasting impact on her life, and on her family’s.

“You didn’t just fix me — you fixed my entire family. I didn’t realise how much I love them until now.”

If you’d like to support our work in Jordan, you can donate here.

*Source: BMC Psychiatry, 2025