In 2024, September, Nepal experienced a devastating landslide disaster, primarily affecting hilly regions like Solukhumbu, which caused widespread destruction and loss of homes and livelihoods. Over 228 people lost their lives, with 67 still missing. The Furlima Foundation has emerged as a beacon of hope, providing mental health support to survivors of the landslides. This support has been crucial in recovery and rebuilding efforts, ensuring access to vital mental health resources for those affected by the disaster.

Furlima Foundation: A Beacon of Hope for Mental Health Support

The Furlima Foundation has supported survivors of the Solukhumbu landslide by providing emotional and mental support. Additionally, the foundation focuses on promoting mental well-being in regions with high trauma rates. They offer services like therapy, counseling, and community workshops, serving as a model for humanitarian organizations providing comprehensive care after disasters.

Furlima’s Mental Health Response to Solukhumbu Landslide

The Furlima Foundation provided mental health support and financial assistance to families like Mr. Tsering Tenji Sherpa’s, who tragically lost two children and their home. Moreover, Mr. Sherpa’s daughter Lhamu Sherpa and son Phurba Lopsang perished in the landslide, while his wife Yandi Sherpa sustained severe injuries. To address these challenges, Furlima integrated trauma-informed therapy along with financial aid to ensure that survivors received comprehensive support. Gylzen Sherpa, another victim, required ongoing mental health care after developing a severe mental illness post-COVID-19. His family struggled financially, and Furlima provided the necessary funds and emotional support to ensure uninterrupted care​​.

The Role of International Donations and Partnerships

Argentina’s Carlos Fernandez Berisso donated to Furlima, an international foundation, to cover medical and rehabilitation costs for landslide victims in Solukhumbu, facilitated by Lakpa Dendi Sherpa and Mingma Sherpa. The foundation, in collaboration with Lakpa Dendi Sherpa, provided logistical support and ongoing medical treatment to individuals like Gylzen Sherpa, ensuring their recovery. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to this project. Your support played a vital role in aiding the victims and making a positive impact on their lives.

Personal Stories of Recovery

Mr. Tsering Tenji Sherpa’s family suffered tragic losses in the Solukhumbu landslide. Their daughter Lhamu Sherpa and son Phurba Lopsang died, and Mr. Sherpa’s wife Yandi Sherpa sustained severe injuries. Furlima provided mental health counseling and financial aid to cover Yandi’s medical expenses. Another survivor, Gylzen Sherpa, struggled with mental health issues after COVID-19, and his family could not afford specialized care. Furlima stepped in, offering both financial and emotional support to ensure his treatment continued uninterrupted. These personal stories highlight Furlima’s commitment to holistic recovery, addressing the mental, emotional, and physical needs of disaster survivors​​.

Ongoing Support and Long-Term Recovery Plans

Recognizing that trauma recovery is a long-term process, Furlima has outlined comprehensive plans for continuous mental health support for the survivors of the Solukhumbu landslide. For example, these plans include regular check-ins, and long-term community rebuilding initiatives. Furthermore, Furlima ensures that emotional recovery remains a top priority.

Collaboration with Local Authorities and Health Services

Furlima Foundation’s efforts in Solukhumbu are deeply integrated with local authorities and healthcare professionals. These collaborations address logistical challenges in reaching remote regions while ensuring that cultural sensitivities are respected. By working together, Furlima and its partners have established a sustainable support network for disaster survivors, providing consistent mental health care long after the initial crisis​.

Furlima’s Approach to Holistic Healing in Mental Health

Furlima’s approach to holistic healing addresses the physical, emotional, mental, well-being of disaster survivors. Our strategy includes financial support, and community-based initiatives that foster comprehensive recovery. Furlima blends modern psychological practices with the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Sherpa community, ensuring their care is both effective and culturally sensitive. This approach has been crucial in helping survivors rebuild their lives. It demonstrates that true recovery requires addressing the whole person, including their mental, emotional well-being.

Call to Action: How You Can Help

Furlima Foundation continues to provide mental health support and disaster recovery aid in Nepal, helping survivors like Gylzen Sherpa and families devastated by the Solukhumbu landslide. Here’s how you can help:

• Donate: Your contributions fund essential mental health services and disaster recovery aid.
• Spread Awareness: Raise awareness about the importance of mental health, helping to break the stigma and encourage others to seek help.
• Volunteer: Support community outreach and service delivery by offering your time and skills.
• Partner with Us: Collaborate with Furlima to expand the reach of its programs and improve disaster preparedness.

By supporting Furlima, you directly contribute to the long-term well-being of disaster survivors, ensuring that both their mental health and physical needs are cared for. Together, we can help these communities rebuild stronger and more resilient than ever​​.

FAQs

What mental health services does Furlima provide for disaster survivors?

Furlima Foundation offers a range of mental health services for disaster survivors, including counseling, trauma-informed workshops, psychological first aid, and specialized care for vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly​.

Why is mental health support crucial for landslide survivors?

Mental health support is essential for landslide survivors to address emotional trauma, grief, and anxiety. However, Counseling and emotional stability are critical to the long-term recovery process, helping survivors rebuild their lives​.

How does Furlima ensure long-term mental health recovery in Solukhumbu?

Furlima ensures long-term recovery by providing follow-up care, and by providing mental health support into daily life. These efforts provide a sustainable recovery model​.

Can individuals volunteer or donate to support Furlima’s work?

Indeed, individuals can volunteer or donate to support Furlima’s work. Donations fund mental health services and community outreach, while volunteers help with logistical efforts and service delivery​.

How does Furlima collaborate with local health services in Nepal?

Furlima collaborates with local health services and authorities to ensure survivors receive consistent care.

What challenges does Furlima face in delivering mental health support?

Furlima faces challenges such as geographical barriers and cultural stigma around mental health in remote areas like Solukhumbu. To address this, Furlima raises awareness about mental health and provide psychological support​​.