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Mental health in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka continues to suffer from over two decades of armed conflict between the state and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), which has killed an estimated 65,000 people and internally displaced over 800,000. The north and east of the country are bearing the brunt of the conflict and the situation was made worse by the Tsunami of December 2004, devastating coastal areas, killing and displacing many more.

The impacts on mental health
Not surprisingly these events are having a significant impact on the mental health of the population. Between five and ten percent of Sri Lankans are estimated to suffer from mental health problems. Although political interest and initiatives relating to mental health have increased since the Tsunami, people with mental health problems are still amongst the most marginalized groups in the country. The government has now started a huge drive to improve and extend the availability of appropriate services to all people with mental health problems.

How you can help
Progress is being made, but it’s not an easy task! That’s why the Sri Lankan government and local NGOs are asking for the help of experienced mental health professionals to build the capacity of its mental health workforce and institutions.

You’ll share your vital skills with mental health workers across the country, strengthening existing services and developing new ones.

In 2008 we need to fill jobs like these:

Mental Health OT - Arunalu Rehabilitation Centre, Kurunegala
Mental Health Development Worker, Angoda - Sri Lanka
Mental Health Rehabilitation Worker – Ridiyagama Rehabilitation Centre in Hambanthota
Mental Health Trainer - (Psychiatric Nurse, Social Worker or Clinical Psychologist) – Angoda Mental Hospital in Colombo
Mental Health Development Worker (OT or Psychiatric Social Worker) - Meedumpitiya Rehabilitation Centre in Uva Province
Project Adviser - ‘Basic Needs’ in Rajagiriya

Sri Lanka Country Profile

What next?
If you’re ready to take the plunge, and use your professional skills where they are desperately needed, apply online today.

Did you know?
VSO provides comprehensive, personal, financial and professional support to all its volunteers. You’ll get extensive training before your placement and our financial package includes a local salary, return flights, accommodation, insurance and more. Read more about how VSO supports its volunteers or call us on 020 8780 7500.