Mental Healthcare in Afghanistan

Since the late 1970s, Afghanistan has experienced political unrest, civil conflict, and crippling Taliban-led administrations. The destructive effects of war have been harmful to the mental health of a population. Almost half of the population suffers from mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide, drug misuse, and other conditions. It has been difficult to provide proper mental healthcare as the nation attempts to rebuild its foundation. The mentally ill have few possibilities to seek adequate support in a nation where mental health treatment has historically been stigmatized and where mental health services are in bad shape. The Afghan government aims to enhance the nation’s mental health infrastructure in conjunction with Non-Governmental Organizations and international organizations.