On February 6^th 2023, a series of devastating earthquakes struck southern Türkiye, resulting in significant loss of life and injuries. Among the most pressing needs identified were long-term mental health and wellbeing support, as many families continue to experience escalated stress levels, fear of aftershocks, and anxiety about future disasters. In these difficult conditions, children also face heightened risks of child labor, abuse, and exploitation.

Amid the devastation, Alaa* emerged as a beacon of hope for her family. Despite the profound loss of her husband, son, and several close relatives, this 45-year-old mother navigated her new reality as the sole provider for her children with remarkable resilience.

Alaa's determination became the foundation of her family's recovery. Her 5-year-old daughter, Enas*, was deeply affected by the earthquakes, waking up in fear and experiencing anxiety over minor tremors. Alaa* took on the dual role of caregiver and breadwinner, initially struggling to make ends meet.

Save the Children Türkiye provided comprehensive support to Alaa*, including three months of rent assistance, enabling her to secure a stable living environment. This stability allowed her newborn grandson to obtain an ID card, granting him access to essential health services. The ongoing case management support Alaa* received has included referrals to the Ministry of Family Affairs, providing the family with additional economic support. Hygiene and clothing aid were also provided to improve their living conditions. Alaa* expressed gratitude for the economic support, saying it was a relief for her family and provided for their basic needs, while helping them get back onto their feet.

Aside from financial support, the effective mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) provided to Alaa* by Save the Children's led to transformative results for her wellbeing.

"Sometimes there are situations that are right in front of our eyes, but we cannot see them. When someone else comes and says something about it, it becomes clearer to us," Alaa* said, acknowledging the invaluable guidance she received through psychological counseling and Problem Management Plus (PM+) sessions.

As Alaa* learned coping strategies and techniques to support her children, her resilience and wellbeing blossomed, positively impacting her entire family. "When you have someone who listens to your pain, you feel relieved and get it off your chest," she shared, highlighting the transformative power of the mental health support she received.

Samet Kurtdere, a Save the Children Case Management Officer, emphasized the importance of a holistic approach, stating, "Working with children also requires working closely with their caregivers. In times of disasters, the capacity of displaced and vulnerable families to cope with stress is significantly reduced."

Alaa's journey from profound loss to stability underscores the transformative impact of comprehensive support services. Through psychosocial support, financial assistance, and coordinated efforts with governmental agencies, Save the Children Türkiye helped Alaa and her family rebuild their lives, demonstrating resilience and hope amid adversity.

This example exemplifies the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in addressing the needs of vulnerable families in the aftermath of disasters. Save the Children Türkiye reached thousands of children and adults, ensuring comprehensive care and protection for those most in need by offering case management services, structured MHPSS sessions, and specialized interventions.

Photos: Özge Demiral/Save the Children Türkiye