Eyes for Freedom | Cheshm Baraye Azadi | چشم برای آزادی

The eyes of a revolution and the stories behind them

Mental Health First Aid

A guide for handling mental health first aid for political prisoners

This guide is rooted in the specific context of Iran’s 2022 protests, particularly following the death of Mahsa (Jina) Amini, which sparked widespread demonstrations against the government and led to mass detentions and has been prepared by volunteers. 

The thread addresses the mental health crisis, including the risk of suicide, faced by those released after such detentions.

– The recommendations focus on trauma-informed care, emotional support, and suicide prevention, aligning with the web results provided (e.g., Amnesty International’s reports on human rights abuses in Iran and studies on suicide prevention in detention settings). These suggestions are practical, empathetic, and sensitive to the psychological toll of detention, torture, and societal pressure.

How to Support and Care for Someone Recently Released from Detention

Given the alarming trend of suicides following release from detention, it might be helpful for anyone who is freed to undergo a drug urine test and basic blood tests including kidney and liver check. 

The first few days after release are critical, so be very attentive and cautious with the person who has been freed.

Talk to them—don’t isolate them or pressure them, but encourage them to speak. Assure them that you’re there for them and have their back. Don’t be afraid to ask directly if they’re experiencing suicidal thoughts. Let them know they’re not alone in this.

Explain to them that they’ve been through an unjust situation they didn’t deserve, and reassure them that whenever they’re ready, they can talk to you. Acknowledge that the hardships they’ve endured might lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide, and emphasize how important it is for them to reach out to you if those feelings intensify.

If they confide in you about having suicidal thoughts, it’s crucial not to lose your composure or become more distressed than they are. Hug them, reassure them that you’ll look after them, and let them know you’ll help them connect with a doctor or counselor. Tell them they’re not alone, that suicidal thoughts don’t mean the end of the world, and that there’s still a future ahead for them.

Don’t brush off the conversation or change the subject—take it seriously. If they’re not ready to talk, don’t force them, but make sure they know they can rely on you whenever they’re ready. Writing might feel easier for them than speaking, so consider that option.

We can never fully know what’s going on in someone’s mind, so avoid saying things like, “Oh, I know it’s tough for everyone.” Instead, say, “I can only imagine how much pain you’re in, but I want you to know you’re not alone.” Repeat back what you hear from them to show you’re listening, and remind them of all the people who care about them.

Encourage them not to focus on the future or make big decisions—help them take it one day at a time. You don’t need to have answers to their problems, because you won’t. Don’t try to correct them or force them to feel happy. Never tell them to “pull themselves together” or imply they’re burdening you.

Avoid saying things like, “You’re upsetting us with your behavior,” or “Look at how you’re making your mom, dad, or siblings cry—you’re causing them pain.” Don’t guilt-trip them or make them feel responsible for others’ distress.

If the person is quiet and withdrawn after release, this could be a warning sign. Don’t force them to talk, but let them know they can open up to you whenever they’re ready. Assure them that nothing they say will diminish your care or respect for them. Ask when they might feel ready to talk, and consider if writing might be a more comfortable way for them to express themselves.

Don’t say things like, “Now, on top of everything, I have to worry about you!” Even if it feels overwhelming, you need to stay attentive and not leave them to cope on their own. Don’t get angry or assume they’re being stubborn or defiant.

Finally, as a suggestion: if it’s safe and you won’t face pressure or risks, connect them with others who have had similar experiences.

If you’re older and have been through detention yourself, reach out to younger people who have just been released and support them. Families, however, should avoid blaming or shaming their loved ones—don’t say things like, “You’ve caused us trouble,” “You’ve damaged our reputation,” or “You got yourself arrested.” Avoid any behavior or mindset that aligns with the repressive systems they’ve suffered under, like the Iranian authorities.

In loving memory of Yalda Aghafazli and Arshia Alamdari, heroine teenagers.