In challenging times, stress can take a toll on both mental and physical health. To support individuals in managing stress effectively, we adapted and localized evidence-based self-help techniques from the WHO’s "Doing What Matters in Times of Stress" guide.
Key Adaptations:
Grounding: Simple techniques to help individuals stay present and reduce anxiety.
Express Yourself: Encouraging healthy emotional expression for mental clarity.
Feeling Safe: Strategies to foster a sense of security and stability.
Acceptance & Growth: Tools for coping with uncertainty and building resilience.
Self-Compassion: Promoting self-kindness as a crucial element of recovery.
Localization Process:
Simplified and adapted the techniques for cultural relevance.
Translated into Kurdish to ensure accessibility for diverse communities.
Developed educational materials blending scientific knowledge with local narratives to make stress management techniques practical and relatable.
This initiative was a collaborative effort between the International Disaster Psychology: Trauma & Global Mental Health MA Program at the University of Denver and the Vajiyan MHPSS Unit. The project was led by Yara Balouk, a graduate student, in partnership with Dyari S. Hama Amin, under the guidance of Dr. Maria Vukovich, the program’s co-director.
Project duration: June 1, 2024, to September 12, 2024
Impact: Created a culturally adapted stress management framework for Kurdish communities.
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