Sri Lanka Mental Health Placement

Erin hllll Start Date: Aug 16, 2017 - End Date: Feb 15, 2018
  • Professional Development
  • TEFL/Teach Abroad
  • Volunteer Trip
  • Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka

My Travel Story

by: Erin hllll Start Date: Aug 16, 2017 - End Date: Feb 15, 2018
  • Professional Development
  • TEFL/Teach Abroad
  • Volunteer Trip
In november this year, I will be going on a 3 month, voluntary mental health placement in Sri Lanka.  Known as "the pearl of the Indian Ocean," Sri Lanka is a pearl-shaped Island with a heart of gold, but there is turbulence in its history.  Sri Lanka is still recovering from a 25-year civil war and the 2004 tsunami and greatly needs more psychological support.  Mental health issues are predominantly treated pharmacologically, beds are scarce and although the local community does its best to provide some respite for families, the lack of formally qualified mental health professionals is apparent.  I will be working at a number of psychiatric facilities and community initiatives to help reduce stigma and strengthen existing resources.  I will be working alongside local professionals to provide much needed stimulation, human contact and improve wellbeing and increase self-esteem. 

This is an exciting and challenging opportunity that will give me hands-on experience while getting to travel abroad.  I will be running project activities, working in a team with other volunteers and taking responsibility for using my skills to work in under-resourced centres.  I will be working 5 days a week, living like a local – using local transport and staying with a Sri Lankan host family.  I look forward to expanding on the knowledge and skills I have learned with my work with additional support needs and am excited about exploring the use of music and creative therapies. 

I am appealing for donations to help me cover the cost of this amazing trip.  I greatly appreciate you taking the time to visit my page, thank you for reading. 
  • Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka

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