Article
Helping the Helpers: Prioritizing Psychosocial Support for NGO Staff
Lesley Ann Van Selm
Khulisa Social Solutions’ Call to Action for Sustainable Change
NGOs are founded on the principles of service, resilience, and steadfast commitment to social change. However, behind the scenes of community upliftment efforts lies an often overlooked crisis—the mental and emotional toll on those who devote their lives to supporting others. NGO staff, while serving as pillars of hope for marginalised communities, frequently bear immense psychological, emotional, and financial burdens. Their capacity to continue this vital work is increasingly risky without structured support mechanisms.
Khulisa Social Solutions recognises the urgent need for a systemic approach to
psychosocial support—not only for the beneficiaries of our programs but also for the
frontline workers who facilitate them. If we fail to support the helpers, we risk jeopardising the foundation of sustainable community development.
The Silent Crisis Among NGO Workers
NGO professionals work on the frontlines of complex social challenges, from supporting survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) to addressing youth trauma, substance abuse, and extreme poverty. In the process, they are often exposed to secondary trauma, chronic stress, and burnout, exacerbated by a sector that remains chronically underfunded and under-resourced. Many are expected to operate in high-pressure environments with minimal support, leading to declining mental well-being and diminished motivation.
Despite the magnitude of their work, these professionals are rarely provided with
formal debriefing, structured counselling, or mental health support. The paradox is evident—those dedicated to healing others are often left without the resources they need to heal themselves. This is an unsustainable model, one that threatens both individual well-being and the long-term impact of social development initiatives.
Khulisa’s Commitment to Sustainable Psychosocial Support
Recognizing these urgent needs, Khulisa Social Solutions is launching a Psychosocial Support Program designed to empower, heal, and sustain the mental well-being of NGO professionals. This initiative acknowledges that sustainable social change is only possible when the individuals driving it are adequately supported. A Two-Phased Approach to Holistic Support:
- Healing and Training NGO Staff
- Immediate relief through individual and group counselling, debriefing sessions, and stress management workshops
- Training NGO professionals as mental health first responders, equipping them with tools to manage their well-being and that of their colleagues
- Establishing peer support networks to create a culture of care and resilience within organizations
- Long-Term Integration of Psychosocial Support
- Extending these services beyond NGO staff to the broader community
- Empowering trained NGO workers to implement mental health first aid programs, fostering resilience at both organisational and community levels
- Partnering with experts in trauma-informed care, mental health advocacy, and workplace well-being to integrate sustainable self-care practices into NGO operations By embedding psychosocial support within our organizational framework, we are addressing immediate distress and creating long-term strategies for mental wellness in the social development sector.
NGOs are the backbone of social transformation. Yet, they cannot pour from an empty cup. It is time to prioritize their well-being—not as an afterthought but as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development.
At Khulisa Social Solutions, we are committed to helping the helpers. Their well- being is necessary and the foundation for meaningful, lasting change.
Let’s stand together to ensure that those who dedicate their lives to serving others receive the support they need to continue making a difference.
For partnership opportunities, further information, or to support this initiative, please contact us.
About us
Khulisa is a non-profit organization dedicated to driving social change through innovative and evidence-based programs. With over 28 years of experience, we work to build safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities by addressing systemic inequalities and empowering individuals. From restorative justice initiatives to community capacity-building projects, our mission is to create sustainable impact and provide vulnerable populations with the tools they need to thrive.
For more information, contact
Lesley Ann Van Selm | 082 601 2299 | lesleyann@khulisa.org.za | media@khulisa.org.za
