Gaza residents struggle with psychological trauma after Israeli war

(CLO) Mental health experts warn that Gaza residents are suffering psychological trauma following Israel's military campaign.

Gaza residents are suffering from psychological trauma as a result of Israel's brutal military campaign, which has become evident since the ceasefire was announced last month, according to Palestinian mental health experts.

Mental health and psychosocial support activities for youth by the Palestine Red Crescent Society. Photo:

Two years of intense Israeli bombing and repeated military attacks have left Gaza's 2.3 million residents in dire straits, with homelessness and widespread hunger.

The strip of land saw at least 68,000 people killed and tens of thousands more buried under rubble, as well as scenes of devastation as almost entire residential areas were leveled.

The psychological impact of this crisis is evident in the increasing number of people seeking treatment at the Gaza City Mental Health Hospital.

The crisis is evident in the influx of patients seeking treatment, said Abdallah al-Jamal, director of the Gaza City Mental Health Hospital. After the ceasefire came into effect, the number of people seeking psychological help exploded.

However, the medical team is facing huge challenges. With the main hospital damaged, Mr. Jamal and his colleagues have had to work at a nearby clinic.

Resources are limited and they are forced to share a room for treatment, leaving patients without privacy during consultations.

“It really goes against the way proper healthcare is delivered, but we are trying our best to find alternatives,” he said, adding that the facility now sees more than 100 patients a day.

Mental health experts from the Palestinian Red Crescent say many children are experiencing serious problems such as night terrors, bedwetting and difficulty concentrating.

“Children in Gaza are currently living in dire need of food, water, shelter and clothing,” the organization’s expert said, adding that her team is organizing games and storytelling activities to help children cope with the trauma.

The ceasefire took effect on October 10, although sporadic violence continues.

Source: https://congluan.vn/nguoi-dan-gaza-vat-lon-voi-chan-thuong-tam-ly-sau-cuoc-chien-cua-israel-10317439.html