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Public health ministry sets up Youth Help Line

author avatar
11 Aug 2012 - 20:40
author avatar
11 Aug 2012 - 20:40

KABUL, with financial and technical support from the United Nations Population Fund, on Saturday set up a phone line to provide youth friendly health counseling.

By dialing 120, the youth can receive accurate health information, including reproductive health, counseling and referrals to appropriate services, the ministry said. Also supported by the Afghan Family Guidance Association (AFGA), The Youth Health Line is reachable from any network for free.

Minister of Public Health Dr. Suraya Dalil said “Girls and boys in our society often do not have anyone to turn to for help. However, by calling the line, they can talk to a telephone counselor without being embarrassed or judged…”

Two counselors, one male and one female, employed and trained by the ministry, will follow the Youth Health Line main principles of providing accurate and timely information, as well as an opportunity for dialogue

Dr. Laurent Zessler, UNFPA representative in Afghanistan that is age-appropriate, gender-sensitive and life skills-based can provide young people with the knowledge and efficacy to make informed decisions about their sexual life.

“When young people are equipped with accurate and relevant information, and access to counseling and reproductive health services that are non-judgmental and affordable, they are better able to take advantage of educational and other opportunities…”

pr/mud

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