In some of the previous blog posts, we talked about how much Afghanistan has been through wars, political struggles, and natural disasters that have deeply impacted not only the country’s infrastructure but also the hearts and minds of its people. But when it comes to rebuilding and recovery, we often focus on rebuilding roads, schools, and homes after a crisis, but what about rebuilding our minds?
After living through years of conflict and constant fear, many Afghans are carrying the most painful experiences in their hearts and minds. These experiences leave emotional wounds that take time and support to heal. Take the story of Mariam, a mother in Kabul who lost her husband in a bomb explosion. She was left to raise three young children on her own. Over time, the pressure became too much, and she sank into depression. Like many Afghans, she didn’t have access to mental health care or even a space to talk about her pain. Her struggle is one that many share, but too few have the help they need to overcome. In Bamyan, for example, where families have been affected by both conflict and natural disasters, something powerful is happening. Small support groups have formed, where people come together to talk about their experiences and find hope in each other. This example reminds me of an old proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” In Afghanistan, going far means leaning on each other, finding strength in the community, and rebuilding not just the physical but the emotional foundations of society.But here’s the thing, technology is making a huge difference in the mental health landscape of Afghanistan. With many people unable to access traditional therapy, especially in remote areas, digital solutions are filling the gap. A very noticeable example is that some initiatives in Afghanistan send daily mental health tips via SMS, offering everything from breathing exercises to motivational quotes. For someone who might feel overwhelmed or hopeless, a small message of encouragement can make a big difference. Technology is slowly changing the way people get help, providing new opportunities for healing even in the most challenging circumstances.
Healing the mind is just as important as rebuilding homes and cities. As Hubert Humphrey once said, “The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love.” And that’s what Afghanistan needs most right now communities standing together, supporting each other, and creating spaces where healing can happen.