Photo: Khalida during a psychosocial counselling session in Khost Province. © UNFPA

Khalida (pseudonym), a 22-year-old mother of two, lost her husband in a traffic accident. The loss left her without financial or emotional support and placed her under pressure from her husband’s family, who refused to give her assistance and threatened to take her children.

She moved from Kabul to Khost Province to live with her parents. By then, she was experiencing anxiety, persistent sadness, and difficulty sleeping, worsened by uncertainty about her future. She sought support at the mother and childcare centre, supported by the fund’s joint programme. Psychosocial counselling helped her manage stress and rebuild coping mechanisms. She was also encouraged to strengthen her support network, particularly her relationship with her parents, which helped improve her sense of stability.

“After my husband’s death, I felt alone and powerless,” she said. “When I came here, I felt safe to speak. The counselling helped me calm my thoughts and feel stronger.”

As part of the support, she received a dignity kit containing essential items, such as soap, sanitary supplies, and basic hygiene products.

Today, she feels more stable, able to manage stress, and make decisions for herself and her children.