Security challenges: FG to manage victims of psychological trauma

By Doyin Ojosipe

The Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu has revealed the move by the federal government to manage traumatic victims of security skirmishes in the country, adding that it was in concern for such victims, and especially women and children cum internally displaced persons

Onyebuchi explained that victims of psychological trauma are on the increase due to various heinous activities carried out by insurgents in many communities of the state.

He also disclosed that the plan had emanated from an earlier meeting with stakeholders, who discussed on emotional and psychological trauma caused by the current security challenges.

In a statement, the Minister revealed yesterday, that a team of psychiatrists and clinical psychologist have been drawn to constitute a committee charged with the management of traumatic victims of insurgent’s attacks in the country.

He added that the committee is also expected to train both local and state health workers in psychological first aid, basic grief counselling and how to detect the symptoms of psychological instability, and also work with the Non- governmental Organisations already working at the affected communities.

Also, part of the committee’s frame is; the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Federal Tertiary Health Institutions, Traditional leaders, faith-based organisations and Federal Ministries of Education, Women Affairs, and Youth and Sports.