Women’s Mental Health Crisis in Balkh; Taliban Restrictions Spread Hopelessness

Kabul Times News | Balkh

As the Taliban continue to impose restrictions on women’s education, employment, and social presence, a number of women and girls in Balkh province say that the deprivation of their right to education and work has left them with depression, anxiety, and hopelessness about the future.

According to these women, forced confinement and loss of educational and job opportunities have had a profound impact on their daily lives, severely reducing their motivation to continue living and planning for the future.

A Balkh resident who previously worked as a teacher said that after being deprived of her job, her feelings of isolation and depression increased, and the lack of daily activity has put a heavy psychological burden on her. She adds that the existing restrictions have severely weakened her hope and motivation for the future.

Meanwhile, a number of women are calling for the establishment and expansion of psychological counseling centers and specialized mental health services. They say that despite some treatment centers, access to specialized psychological services in Balkh is still limited and does not meet the growing needs of women.

Mental health experts also report an increase in the number of referrals, especially among women and youth. According to them, unemployment, economic problems, social isolation and restrictions imposed on women are among the most important factors in the increase in depression, anxiety and other mental disorders in recent months.

This comes while the United Nations Women (UN Women) had previously warned that the reduction in international aid and the financial crisis of women's support institutions in Afghanistan could further limit women and girls' access to support services, including mental health services.

Report: Shahbanu Noori