Strengthening Mental Health and Psychosocial Support: Reflections from a Two-Day Seminar

On March 11 and 12, the JRS Greece office had the opportunity to participate in a seminar on MHPSS alongside two colleagues from the MHPSS unit of the JRS International office.  The seminar took place over two intensive days, during which participants gained both theoretical and practical insights into the topic. Throughout the sessions, they deepened their understanding of psychological first aid, clarified key concepts, addressed questions, and reflected critically on their role in supporting people in crisis. The seminar also created a safe space for sharing field experiences, allowing participants to connect the training content with real-life challenges encountered in their daily work. 

On the first morning, invitations were extended to several organizations from Athens, including Caritas Hellas,  CRIBS, Action for Women, Collective Art Center, Caritas Athens, ECHO100PLUS, Meraki, Glocal Roots, Medical Solidarity International, Velos Youth, and European Lawyers in Lesvos. Their participation greatly enriched the dialogue by bringing diverse perspectives and expertise into the discussion. This exchange fostered stronger connections among organizations and contributed to the dissemination of MHPSS knowledge across different communities working with vulnerable populations. 

Through interactive exercises, role-playing scenarios,  and group discussions, participants were able not only to understand the principles of psychological first aid but also to actively practice their application in realistic situations. These activities helped build confidence and reinforced the importance of empathy, active listening, and culturally sensitive responses when supporting individuals in distress. 

The training also provided space for reflection on self-care and the emotional impact of working in high- stress environments. Recognizing the importance of staff wellbeing was a crucial component, emphasizing that effective support for others begins with taking care of oneself and one’s team. 

The training highlighted the importance of continued collaboration in strengthening MHPSS capacity and ensuring a more integrated approach across programs. Advancing mental health and psychosocial support remains essential for improving both the quality and the long-term impact of initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable communities.