At 2,700 metres above sea level, nestled high in the Himalayas, lies Jomsom — the heart of Gharapjhong rural municipality in Mustang district. This small town, home to just over 1,300 people, is crossed by the Kali Gandaki River and framed by the majestic Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri peaks. Though remote, Jomsom serves as the nearest urban hub for thousands of people living across the vast mountain region.

Jomsom is also home to the district’s only hospital — Jomsom District Hospital — where a small team of dedicated nurses and doctors provide vital care despite limited resources.

Right now, two members of our team — Sagoon KC and Anjal Bhatta — are on the ground in Jomsom, working closely with local officials and healthcare staff to shape Jaya Mental Health’s plans for the region. One of our key aims is to establish a nursing-led, full-time mental health desk at the hospital, ensuring that anyone affected by mental illness has somewhere to turn for help, support, and hope.

Tragically, suicide remains the leading cause of death among women of working age in many Himalayan communities. Our mission is to change this — by building accessible, high-quality mental health services led by confident, well-supported nurses, and ultimately, saving lives.