In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that rocked Morocco on September 8, 2023, a dedicated group of professionals is making an indelible difference in the lives of those left reeling by the catastrophe. The “Amazigh Psychologists in Morocco” initiative, led by Meryem Ouahmane, a Moroccan Amazigh psychologist, is harnessing the power of language and culture to provide vital psychological support to Morocco’s Amazigh community.
The Amazigh Psychologists in Morocco initiative was born out of an urgent necessity — the need to confront the often-overlooked mental health challenges confronting Morocco’s Amazigh population in the wake of the earthquake. Traumatic events like these can have profound and lasting impacts on mental well-being, making culturally sensitive support an absolute imperative.
At the helm of this initiative stands Meryem Ouahmane, an exceptionally qualified and empathetic psychologist. Meryem’s drive to lead this endeavor is rooted in her unwavering commitment to the mental well-being of the Amazigh community. Her extensive background in psychology, coupled with her deep Amazigh heritage, uniquely equips her to comprehend and address the specific mental health needs of this community.
The earthquake of September 8, 2023, left deep scars on the affected regions. Beyond the physical devastation, it inflicted emotional wounds that demand delicate care and attention. The Amazigh population, in particular, confronted distinctive psychological challenges. Loss, trauma, and grief became a shared experience.
The immediate and long-term psychological impact on the Amazigh community cannot be underestimated. Families were torn asunder, homes reduced to rubble, and livelihoods annihilated. The very essence of the community was strained. However, thanks to the Amazigh Psychologists in Morocco initiative, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon.
At the heart of this initiative lies a profound commitment to providing Psychological First Aid (PFA) to those affected by the earthquake. PFA is an evidence-based approach that emphasizes immediate and practical assistance for supporting emotional well-being during and after a crisis. It encompasses activities such as active listening, delivering essential information, and connecting individuals to appropriate resources.
The Amazigh Psychologists in Morocco initiative understands that the initial steps towards healing often involve addressing the immediate psychological needs of survivors. By offering culturally sensitive PFA, they empower individuals to manage their distress, diminish the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder, and nurture resilience.
In the pursuit of their on-ground endeavors, the Amazigh Psychologists in Morocco initiative orchestrated “La Caravane Oukaimden.” This caravan of hope and support brought together over 20 dedicated individuals, including psychologists, specialists in early childhood education, and coordinators. Among them, Psychologist Rania Elhammouni played a pivotal role in coordinating with the team, facilitating their efforts in Oukaimden.
Upon their arrival in Oukaimden, the team immersed themselves in the local community, fostering connections and empathizing with their experiences. They conducted therapeutic circles, one-on-one counseling sessions, child-focused activities, and community engagement events. The presence of “La Caravane Oukaimden” provided a ray of light in the darkest of times, exemplifying the transformative power of compassion and cultural understanding.
In summation, the “Amazigh Psychologists in Morocco” initiative stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. It serves as a testament to the potent combination of language, culture, and Psychological First Aid in the realm of trauma recovery. As Morocco embarks on its journey towards healing and recovery, this initiative serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that compassionate, culturally sensitive support can wield on the human spirit when faced with adversity.
