Libyan Minister of Health Othman Abdeljalil stated in a recent interview that the coastal city of Derna and other flood-affected areas are in critical need of mental health services following last week’s devastating floods. Abdeljalil indicated the World Health Organization will send psychiatrists and psychiatric medications to help address mental health needs.
The Minister acknowledged Libya currently lacks adequate mental health infrastructure and requires international support in developing this crucial area of healthcare. “We plan to create an actionable strategy to upgrade healthcare services in the damaged regions,” Abdeljalil said.
According to the Minister, the WHO will also deploy additional mobile medical clinics to serve the impacted areas. The heavy rains from Mediterranean storm Daniel on September 11 caused severe flooding across eastern Libya after two dams were overwhelmed, sending floodwaters surging through the city of Derna. Authorities have confirmed at least 11,000 fatalities so far, with over 10,000 still missing and feared dead. Recovery and rebuilding efforts continue.