A holistic approach to mental health
Interview with Dr Bayan Kader Rasul
In the heart of conflict-ridden Kurdistan, Dr Bayan Kader Rasul advocates tirelessly for her community's mental well-being. She shed light on the profound challenges mental health professionals face in conflict settings. With a career spanning decades, her insights offer a narrative of determination in the face of adversity.
Three decades ago, Dr Rasul left her homeland, seeking safety. After completing psychiatric training in the Netherlands, she returned to Kurdistan-Iraq to contribute to its rebuilding efforts. However, she soon encountered the harsh realities of war and displacement, mainly affecting vulnerable groups like women and the Yazidi community.
'It's the combination of traumatic events.'
“More than 6,000 women were taken into slavery by the ISIS. They were sexually abused, some of them got pregnant, and family were killed. Upon returning home, they found their villages destroyed, forcing them into refugee camps. Some can’t communicate with their loved ones because they haven’t learned to speak Kurdish. It’s this combination of traumatic events which profoundly impact our society.”
Different paradigms on psychotrauma
In Kurdistan-Iraq, psychological symptoms are medicalised. Dr Rasul advocates for a more holistic approach and the urgent need for systemic change: “Psychosocial first aid is essential. We need to embed psychosocial support in schools and health and security systems. It is important for our well-being and to prevent mental health issues in the future.”
Culture sensitive programmes
Despite the stigma, lack of awareness, and governmental support, Dr Rasul offers psychosocial support to women affected by sexual and gender-based violence. She emphasises the need for culturally sensitive programmes: “I’m in contact with women who resettled in Germany and Sweden. They experience a cultural barrier; for example, how we cope with grief varies significantly in our language and tradition.”
'I’m a gynaecologist, psychiatrist and woman activist.'
Amidst the challenges, Dr Rasul finds hope in her continued ability to serve her community despite nearing retirement. She emphasises the importance of prioritising mental health and advocates for empathy and holistic care to rebuild fractured societies. As Kurdistan seeks recovery, her legacy shines brightly, guiding the path towards healing and reconciliation.
In 2023, ARQ organised an international conference commemorating 50 years of knowledge sharing on psychotrauma. Psychiatrist Bayan Kader Rasul was among four panellists invited by ARQ International to share her perspective on psychotrauma in conflict settings. Dr Bayan Kader Rasul co-founded the Emma Organization for Human Development in Kurdistan-Iraq. With ARQ's collaboration, they contextualised the Multi-Family Approach program to strengthen family connections and support networks. The Emma staff receive ongoing training from ARQ, including online sessions that address daily challenges and emphasise the importance of self-care.