Psychosocial Program

Name: Amber Johnston

Position: Psychosocial Program Coordinator

With CCHIPs Since: Sept. 2009

Project Update:

Since starting the Psychosocial Program at Shingiro Health Center 10 weeks ago, I’ve been amazed at the initial success of the program. During the 10 weeks we met with 38 clients, had 6 follow-up meetings where clients came back for additional appointments, and went to the sector offices 3 times to advocate for clients. The majority of people we saw were women. However, 3 times couples came in together to try and work out problems between them. The range of issues that were presented was remarkable: from young girls who had gotten pregnant out of wedlock, men who were having sexual troubles, to women who were suffering from domestic violence. Despite the variety, one of the most common issues was family conflict, with 13 out of the 38 clients coming to us because of it. The reasons behind the family conflict varied and included alcoholism, land issues, polygamy and domestic violence.

During the sessions we have had a number of clients thank us for having the program and many said that they felt much better after having someone listen to them and offer counseling.  The nurses and community health workers have also been incredibly supportive. During trainings and informal conversations it was commonly acknowledged that in Rwanda very few people have someone they can confide in and many mentioned that it is important to have someone trained to talk to.

This coming year we are looking forward to the psychosocial/mental health program become an integrated part of Shingiro health center. January, February, March and April Jean Bosco and I will be continuing the activities at the health center and after our 6 month data collection period we will begin transitioning the daily activities of the program to a trained nurse at the health center.  

Watching the psychosocial program come together has been amazing. The progress from when I first came over in September, 2009 has been incredible. There were times during those first months when it was difficult to imagine what the program would look like and if it would be functional. Seeing the program operating at the health center, and having such positive feedback about the activities has been a rewarding experience.

Best Meal of the Week: Homemade avocado juice

Favorite Place in Rwanda: Our front porch at sunset

View of the volcanoes from our front porch -- so beautiful!