Adolescents growing up in contexts of displacement and ongoing instability are often confronted with the long-term impacts of violence, loss, and uncertainty. At the same time, they — like all young people — face complex developmental challenges, which are particularly difficult under these conditions. This can lead to emotional distress, limited opportunities for self-expression, and weakened social cohesion.

The PSIDAD project addresses these challenges by combining structured psychosocial support with creative and participatory activities for adolescents aged 10 to 19 in the Dawadia camp in northern Iraq. A central element of the approach is the active involvement of young people in shaping the project’s content. Their perspectives, needs, and capacities are placed at the centre. The aim is to strengthen their well-being, foster individual resources, and support positive social relationships.

At the heart of the project is a modular group intervention that engages with emotions, thoughts, and behaviour. It is complemented by creative workshops—such as photography, drawing, music, and sports—which provide space for expression, exchange, and new experiences. By linking psychosocial support with creative methods, participants are enabled to process their experiences and engage more actively with their social environment.

The project is continuously adapted to the local context. A participatory baseline assessment ensures that activities are grounded in the actual lived realities of the adolescents. In this way, PSIDAD contributes to strengthening resilience, fostering a sense of belonging, and promoting social cohesion within the community.