The Iranian Red Crescent Society and the International Committee of the Red Cross have launched a joint psychosocial workshop. The three-day event took place from August 24 to 26 in Tehran. The specialized program aimed to strengthen mental health support for emergency personnel working in high-pressure disaster environments. Consequently, 20 selected psychologists from across the country gathered to complete the training program.
The initial phase focused on resilience building, peer support techniques, self-care practices, and methods for identifying psychological distress. Subsequently, the participating specialists formed 10 co-facilitation pairs to conduct follow-up training sessions across various provinces. These teams will deliver mental health modules to local relief leaders and operational personnel nationwide. Through this cascade model, organizers expect to reach approximately 600 emergency workers at regional rescue bases.
Earlier this month, senior humanitarian officials met to discuss a long-term strategic roadmap for expanded regional cooperation. International Affairs Director Razieh Alishvandi met with International Committee chief Stephan Bonamy to discuss operational partnerships. Alishvandi emphasized that the national society operates more than 200 rehabilitation centers and medical equipment manufacturing facilities. Furthermore, she proposed expanding technical cooperation, standardizing medical products, and integrating local supply chains into global operations.
Stephan Bonamy praised the country’s extensive operational capabilities, pre-hospital care services, and rehabilitation networks. Additionally, he expressed condolences over the recent deaths of relief workers during crisis situations. Bonamy affirmed that international teams remain committed to supporting economic recovery programs for affected coastal communities. Looking ahead, both organizations plan to expand joint initiatives focused on artificial intelligence integration and disaster risk management.