Mental health: Nipa’s story
Nipa Begum’s* life changed in a matter of seconds. At just 29, she was a mother and homemaker, raising her six-year-old daughter, Asia, when her husband threw acid on them both following a family dispute.
The attack left Nipa with severe burns to her hand, back, chest, and legs. Asia was also badly burned. Rushed to the hospital and later transferred to the Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF) in Dhaka, mother and daughter spent three months receiving medical treatment, surgery, physiotherapy and psychotherapy.
While the physical wounds could be treated, the emotional scars were much harder to heal. Nipa had to rebuild her confidence while coping with trauma, stigma and the lasting impact of violence. Her mental health support became an essential part of her recovery, helping her find the strength to move forward.
Nipa also refused to give up her pursuit of justice. Although her husband was released on bail after less than a year in prison, and she faced pressure from local influencers and even the court to settle, she remained determined.
In 2025, Nipa joined a two-month Block-Batik training programme. What began as a new skill soon became a source of confidence and hope. She now dreams of starting a home-based business, involving her daughter and eventually creating opportunities for other survivors.
“I want to support myself and empower others too,” she says.
For survivors of acid violence, recovery is about far more than healing physical injuries. Trauma, isolation and stigma can make rebuilding a life incredibly difficult. By combining professional mental health support with livelihood opportunities, the programme is helping survivors like Nipa regain confidence, independence and a sense of purpose.
Nipa’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, survivors can move beyond what happened to them, and begin to dream about what comes next.
*Names changed for confidentiality purposes. Images are not of any individuals mentioned.
