Peshawar (Agencies): A comprehensive nine-month training program focusing on mental health and psychological social support for the transgender community has been successfully completed. The initiative, conducted by Handicap International in collaboration with GIZ, aimed to empower this vulnerable segment of society in handling psychological stress and depression.
The training program targeted the mental health challenges faced by the transgender community due to neglect and deprivation, as explained by Daud Rahim, an MHPSS Trainer. Participants received education on managing mental stress, decision-making, counseling skills, communication skills, self-care, and more. They also underwent training in Psychological First Aid (PFA), which they can now pass on to their peers.
According to Rahim, the PFA training has significantly enhanced the participants’ capacity in conflict resolution, decision-making, problem-solving, and listening skills. The training included physical exercises designed to reduce mental stress and depression.
Project Officer Rehan Liaqat highlighted that the transgender community is highly marginalized and often experiences severe mental stress and psychological trauma due to societal deprivation. The training helped raise awareness among the transgender community about breaking the status quo and acquiring skills for a respectful livelihood.
Approximately 20 transgender individuals selected for the training expressed their determination to learn new skills and move away from dependency on their mentors. Devia, a participant, shared that the training has instilled a sense of independence and a passion for solving their problems without relying on others. Another participant, Koko, emphasized the need for societal acceptance of their gender and respectful treatment from people.
Katrina, a trans rights activist, praised Handicap International’s initiative for helping the transgender community move away from a life of problems, deprivation, and disrespect.