Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Volunteer

Project Context

Lebanon is currently facing a severe mental health crisis driven by multiple, overlapping emergencies. These include a prolonged economic collapse, ongoing political instability, the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion, and the continued pressure of hosting large refugee and migrant populations. Since March 2, 2026, the situation has deteriorated dramatically following intense airstrikes that have triggered mass displacement, forcing over one million people to flee their homes in search of safety.

Many internally displaced individuals, including older adults, are now sleeping on sidewalks or collapsing in the streets due to extreme exhaustion. Children are particularly affected, experiencing dehydration, fatigue, and intense fear after enduring continuous stress and displacement. Numerous families have fled without any belongings, leaving them highly vulnerable. Women and girls, in particular, are exposed to harsh conditions, sleeping outdoors without basic necessities such as mattresses, sanitation facilities, or reliable access to food.

Above all, the mental health and psychosocial well-being of communities across Lebanon has significantly worsened. Anxiety, trauma, and deep feelings of despair are increasingly widespread, intensified by the ongoing instability and its physical and emotional toll. Many individuals are suffering from acute psychological distress, including insomnia, persistent fear of further displacement, and uncertainty about their safety. With the constant threat of escalation, loss of loved ones, and lack of secure shelter, communities are living in a state of prolonged fear. Overall, the combined psychological and physical burden is overwhelming, further deepening an already critical mental health crisis.

Humanity & Inclusion (HI) has been actively working in Lebanon to address these challenges. As part of its commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, HI is developing an Emergency Preparedness and Response Program. This program aims to enhance the organization's capacity to rapidly and effectively respond to crises, with a particular focus on providing mental health and psychosocial support to affected communities. As part of this initiative, HI is seeking to identify and train a dedicated group of MHPSS volunteers. These volunteers will play a crucial role in HI's ability to provide timely and effective support to communities affected by crises.

Roles and Responsibilities

1. Emergency Preparedness

• Attend MHPSS capacity-building sessions conducted by the HI team, including Psychological First Aid (PFA), community-level MHPSS interventions, safe identification and referral, and culturally sensitive approaches in emergencies.
• Support the preparation of materials and equipment required for emergency MHPSS interventions.
• Assist in mapping and regularly updating information on key service providers within the areas of intervention.
• Maintain regular communication with HI and partner organizations, and participate in refresher trainings and online learning to stay updated on best practices.

2. Emergency Response

• Provide basic psychosocial support to individuals and groups in line with international guidelines and ethical standards.
• Conduct community awareness and information sessions for affected populations.
• Distribute context-appropriate Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials related to MHPSS.
• Support the organization and facilitation of age-appropriate recreational and psychosocial activities.
• Assist in the distribution of emergency psychosocial support (PSS) kits and provide guidance on their use.
• Participate in rapid needs assessments and data collection.
• Identify individuals with critical needs, including persons with disabilities, and refer them to appropriate service providers.
• Document activities and observations to support reporting and program planning.
• Carry out additional tasks as required based on evolving needs and context.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Students or graduates in psychology, social work, psychiatry, nursing, counselling, or a related field
• Fluency in Arabic (both spoken and written), English / French languages are plus (not mandatory)
• Previous volunteer or work experience in the field of MHPSS, Protection, and/or humanitarian aid
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse community members.
• Prior involvement in emergency response or humanitarian work is a plus
• Emotional stability and resilience to work in high-stress environments
• Flexibility and adaptability to rapidly changing situations
• Computer literacy
• Enthusiasm and a passion to learn
• Willingness to travel to affected areas, potentially in difficult conditions

Commitment

The volunteer position requires a 3-months commitment, starting April. Volunteers must be prepared to:

• Attend mandatory initial trainings covering MHPSS principles, emergency response protocols, and cultural sensitivity.
• Patriciate in online learning modules to stay updated on best practices.
• Participate in quarterly online refresher courses.
• Be available to travel to locations affected by emergencies in Lebanon with short notice.
• Participate in supervision and debriefing sessions with MHPSS professionals.

Locations

Volunteers must be willing and be able to travel to at least one of the following areas within short notice:

• Beirut and Mount Lebanon areas: Collective temporary shelters

Benefits to Volunteering

Joining our team of MHPSS volunteers offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while developing valuable skills and experiences. As a volunteer, you'll receive comprehensive training in MHPSS and emergency response. This training not only enhances your professional skills but also contributes to your personal growth, helping you develop resilience and adaptability in challenging environments. By volunteering, you'll gain hands-on experience in MHPSS and emergency response, working alongside experienced professionals who will provide regular supervision and mentoring. This practical experience will enhance your career prospects in the humanitarian sector. Perhaps most importantly, your work will have a direct and meaningful impact on communities in crisis. You'll provide crucial support to vulnerable individuals, contributing to their resilience and recovery.

We value our volunteers and provide practical support to ensure your experience is rewarding. This includes 30 USD per volunteering day as contribution for travel expenses and food. In Addition, as part of duty of care during emergency, HI will provide medical insurance for the months of deployment in the field.

To apply for the volunteer position, please submit your CV highlighting relevant experience and qualifications

Please send your CV application to recruitment@lebanon.hi.org, with the subject line “MHPSS VOLUNTEER 2026”.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a short interview.