The author analyses the impact of psychosocial training and programmes on local human resources focusing on some negative effects. Statements are illustrated with examples from the author's experience of long lasting practice of field work in areas affected by armed conflicts and terrorist acts. The relations between human resources, social capital, capacity building, sustainability, and mental health and psychosocial well-being are discussed. The gap between the declarative need for the mobilisation of local human resources in the frame of psychosocial assistance and the actual practice should be a matter of concern of donors, programme designers, field workers and local agents.