Mental Health Capacity of HIV Service Providers Strengthened Through Nationwide Training Initiative

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Mental Health Capacity of HIV Service Providers Strengthened Through Nationwide Training Initiative

Mental Health Capacity of HIV Service Providers Strengthened Through Nationwide Training Initiative

Ganesh Khatiwada 2026-06-09 19:34:34

Kathmandu, Nepal - A three-day training programme aimed at strengthening mental health support within HIV care services has been successfully conducted for Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) service providers representing all seven provinces of Nepal.
The training, organized by Blue Diamond Society and Recovering Nepal under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)'s Global Fund-supported programme, focused on enhancing the capacity of frontline healthcare providers to address the mental health needs of people living with HIV and other key populations.
Participants received practical training on mental health screening, counselling techniques, referral mechanisms, and crisis response strategies. The programme sought to equip service providers with the skills necessary to deliver person-centred care that is accessible, inclusive, rights-based, and responsive to the unique challenges faced by vulnerable communities.
Addressing the event, UNDP Deputy Representative Julien Chevillard highlighted the continuing impact of stigma and discrimination on access to essential health services. He emphasized the importance of creating supportive and inclusive systems that enable all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, to access the care and assistance they require.
The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to integrate mental health services into HIV care, recognizing that mental well-being is a critical component of effective treatment, recovery, and overall quality of life. By strengthening the capacity of healthcare providers and promoting a more supportive service environment, the programme aims to improve health outcomes for people living with HIV while advancing the broader goal of ensuring that no one is left behind.
Public health experts have increasingly recognized the close connection between mental health and HIV outcomes, noting that comprehensive care approaches can help improve treatment adherence, reduce stigma, and enhance the overall well-being of affected individuals and communities.
#HIVHealth #MentalHealth #HIVResponse #PublicHealth #InclusiveHealthcare #CommunityRightsAndGender #LeaveNoOneBehind #OSTServices #BlueDiamondSociety #RecoveringNepal #UNDP #GlobalFund #HealthEquity #NepalHealth #EcosphereNews

Published Date 2026-06-09 19:34:34