As the counsellor attached to Lepra’s Mind to Heart project in Bangladesh, Khadiza Tul Kobra has seen first-hand the devastating emotional impact that a leprosy of lymphatic filariasis (LF) diagnosis can have. She understands the importance of giving people the time, space and empathy they need to overcome this difficult time and regain their confidence, recover and thrive.
The Mind to Heart project is a community-led research project, funded by the Sasakawa Health Foundation, and working in partnership with the Bogura Federation, which brings together a network of 101 community ‘self-support groups’ throughout Bangladesh’s Bogura District.
“I decided to train as a counsellor after recognising a deep connection between physical health and psychological issues. I observed that many vulnerable people were silently suffering with stigma, isolation and emotional distress, especially people affected by leprosy and lymphatic filariasis which is why I decided to join the project in August 2025.
My primary role is to provide one-to-one counselling with people affected by leprosy and LF, and to their families. I also train volunteer Mental Motivators to provide basic mental health in the community. Alongside this, I work with the health team in the psychiatry department of the government hospital.
Many people experiencing mental health issues delay seeking help due to stigma and discrimination. Due to cultural beliefs, Bangladeshi people often believe that a person in distress has ‘gone mad’ or has been possessed by the devil in which case they remain untreated which causes prolonged distress.
Financial constraint and transportation are also key barriers, especially for people living in rural areas. Often the distance to professional services providers is lengthy and costly and is especially difficult for people with a disability to access.
To be able to support people through such a difficult point in their life and to see them start their journey of physical and emotional recovery, is a privilege for me. For example, I recently supported a woman affected by leprosy who was experiencing depression, social rejection and self-stigma. Withdrawn from society and social activities, she felt extremely isolated.
Through her counselling sessions, we worked together to explore and overcome the emotional issues she faces. Over time, she managed to regain her self-confidence and re-engaged in social activity. She now provides peer support to other people in the community experiencing similar mental health issues, which is a really wonderful outcome.
I wanted to express my gratitude to Lepra’s supporters that have helped to make this project a reality. Your kindness and generosity have helped so many vulnerable people to rebuild their lives following a diagnosis, and with your continued support we will help many more.”
