Resources to respond to the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan

NASW Ohio continues to watch with deep concern and outrage at the violence unfolding in Afghanistan. 

We want to express deep love and solidarity for the Afghan people, particularly those whose lives are in acute risk due to their alignment with U.S. military, stances on gender and LGBTQ equality, or journalistic reporting. 

Our hearts also extend to all active duty servicemembers and their families as well as veterans who may be experiencing an increase in difficult feelings including moral distress. In particular, we want to extend our deep condolences to the family of Max Soviak of Berlin Heights, a Navy medic who was amongst the 13 U.S. Servicemembers killed yesterday at the Kabul airport. 

Social workers will continue to play an important role via political advocacy and direct service as this humanitarian crisis unfolds. Below we have collected some resources that may support your practice and advocacy efforts. We invite social workers who have direct connections to Afghanistan, work in refugee resettlement, and/or with active duty and veteran military members to add to our list below. 

NASW National statement 'NASW Calls for Peaceful Political Settlement in Afghanistan' (August 2021) >>>

Resources for supporting the Afghan people

• Refugee Council USA - resources for support and advocacy at https://rcusa.org/afghanistan
• Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Ohio and local offices - Afghanistan Community Alert, August 20, 2021 https://www.cair-ohio.com/afghanistan-community-alert/
• Community Refugee & Immigration Services, Ohio  - information and opportunities to support refugee resettlement in Ohio https://www.crisohio.org/august-newsletter-spotlight-developments-in-afghanistan/

Resources for Veterans

• Information on coping with current events in Afghanistan - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs tip sheet, August 2021
• Veterans Crisis Line - If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 1-800-273-8255, then PRESS 1 or visit http://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• Vet Centers - Discuss how you feel with other Veterans in these c ommunity-based counseling centers. 70% of Vet Center staff are Veterans. Call 1-877-927-8387 or find one near you .
• VA Mental Health Services Guide - This guide will help you sign up and access mental health services.
• MakeTheConnection.net - information, resources, and Veteran to Veteran videos for challenging life events and experiences with mental health issues.
• RallyPoint  - Talk to other Veterans online. Discuss: What are your feelings as the Taliban reclaim Afghanistan after 20 years of US involvement?
• Download VA's self-help apps - Tools to help deal with common reactions like, stress, sadness, and anxiety. You can also track your symptoms over time.
• Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) -  Request a Peer Mentor
• VA Women Veterans Call Center - Call or text 1-855-829-6636 (M-F 8AM - 10PM & SAT 8AM - 6:30PM ET)
• VA Caregiver Support Line - Call 1-855-260-3274 (M-F 8AM - 10PM & SAT 8AM - 5PM ET)