Ending Gender Based Violence (GBV)

Advancing Mental Health as a Pathway to Ending Gender-Based Violence Date of Activity: 22nd May 2025  Location:

Euphrasia Women Centre Facilitator: Pamela Ateka

Introduction As part of our ongoing commitment to empowering women and girls to lead lives free from violence, stigma, and systemic silence, we conducted a transformative mental health awareness and training session focused specifically on women and girls. The session, held on 22nd May 2025  served as a healing ground and learning space to address the deeply connected themes of trauma, resilience, and emotional wellness within the broader struggle to end gender-based violence (GBV). Purpose of the Session The goal of this training was to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment where women and girls could explore the intersection of mental health and GBV, reclaiming their voices and agency in the process. We sought to: Deconstruct stigma surrounding mental health Provide tools for emotional resilience and self-care Encourage open dialogue on trauma, anxiety, and healing Reframe mental health not as a luxury, but as a right and necessity for every woman and girl

 The session opened with grounding exercises and storytelling, allowing participants to feel seen and heard. The core of the training explored: The psychological impact of GBV, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and shame Healthy coping mechanisms and strategies for emotional regulation The power of community care and peer-led support Setting and maintaining personal boundaries Practical pathways to mental health support in under-resourced environments Participants engaged in role-plays, group reflections, and affirmations to reinforce concepts.

The Key Messages Delivered Mental health is health. It is not a sign of weakness—it is a cornerstone of strength, especially in the fight against gender-based violence.

Speaking up is strength. Silence only serves the oppressor. By sharing our stories, we shift the narrative from victimhood to victory.

Boundaries are power. Learning to say no and protect one’s peace is an act of resistance and self-worth.

Healing is revolutionary. In a world that benefits from women’s silence and burnout, choosing to heal is a bold, radical act.

Women and girls expressed immense gratitude for a space that didn’t just educate, but liberated. For many, it was the first time they had openly spoken about their mental health. One participant shared, "I now understand that taking care of my mind is not selfish—it is survival. It is sacred."

 Over 200 women and girls reached through the session Increased awareness of available support systems and mental health referral options Strengthened peer solidarity and emotional safety among participants Renewed commitment among community leaders and participants to integrate mental health support in GBV advocacy and prevention efforts Conclusion & Way Forward This session marks a foundational step in our project’s holistic approach to ending GBV. By prioritizing mental wellness, we empower women and girls not only to survive violence but to rise as leaders, changemakers, and torchbearers of a new narrative—one grounded in self-worth, healing, and justice. Moving forward, we aim to expand this model into more communities, equip grassroots leaders with mental health first aid skills, and advocate for the integration of mental health services into GBV response programs. Let us continue to hold space. Let us build cultures of rest and radical self-love. Let us teach our women , mothers and daughters that their minds matter.