Report on – 33rd IC Resolution 2: Addressing mental health and psychosocial needs of people affected by armed conflicts, natural disasters and other emergencies (33IC/19/R2) – Croatian Red Cross

Has your State/National Society/Institution incorporated the commitments contained in this resolution into the relevant strategic or operational plans?

Yes

The commitments are incorporated into:
Operational plan

At the National, Local level

Has your State/National Society/Institution been working with other partners to implement the commitments contained in this resolution?

No

Have you encountered any challenges in implementing the commitments contained in this resolution?

Yes

With challenges on:
Funding constraints
Lack of capacity and/or support (technical, financial, or other)

Details about challenges:

As many National Societies it is a struggle to find continuous funding for mental health and psychosocial support programs to make them more sustainable and being not only funded during emergencies, but beyond that – in preparedness phase, which is a key element for a qualitative and timely response.

Have the commitments contained in this resolution had an impact on the work and direction of your State/National Society/Institution?

No

Have the commitments contained in this resolution had an impact on the communities that your State/National Society/Institution serves?

Yes

Description of the impact:

MHPSS has become more integral part of the response and at the local level Red Cross branches have become more aware of its importance. Knowing that, they are much more open for capacity building of their staff and volunteers making an impact at  the community level and supporting them more efficient than before. Any emergency response tends to be built with taking into consideration MH needs and integrate and support for people in need. Also, there is possibility of early preparedness in terms of psychoeducation of communities and making them more prepared for possible emergencies and their reactions to it, as well as how to cope with the consequences.