Reference :
V-P-MM-E-00533
Date :
04/04/2023
Caption :
Kachin State, Myitkyina. Physical Rehabilitation Centre. An ICRC staff member offers a mental health and psychosocial support session to a landmine victim. The man says how his handicap caused his ostracism.
Confidentiality level :
public
Publication restrictions :
publication without restrictions
Description :
“I isolated myself from everyone due to the stigma associated with a physical disability,” said U Mar Gam (...).
“I lost my leg from a landmine incident back in 2021,’’ he recalled. “Since then, I can’t do anything or move anywhere. I felt lonely and depressed about my living condition.”
Landmines don't just cause physical harm – they also impact mental health.
Survivors often experience significant traumas from the event and their injuries. U Mar Gam is currently fitted with a new prosthesis at the Myitkyina Physical Rehabilitation Centre. As he is taking the next step in his new life, he is also receiving mental health and psychosocial support provided by the ICRC.
“I enjoy the sessions about mindfulness and learning more about my reactions toward my own situation and other psychosocial issues such as stress and depression,” he mentioned as he reflects on the support group sessions.
“I now learned many coping skills and think positively about my situation. I do not feel lonely anymore,” he expressed as he looks forward to continuing his work and day-to-day activities.
At the Myitkyina Physical Rehabilitation Centre, we provide comprehensive physical rehabilitation by integrating mental health and psychosocial support services to address the identified needs of patients.
Original material :
digital
Resolution :
3024x4032
Orientation :
portrait
Colour/B&W :
colour
