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The year since the Israeli offensive in Gaza has seen the physical destruction of homes and infrastructure, but the invisible wounds of mental trauma linger deeply, particularly among children. The article highlights the devastating impact of the conflict, where individuals like Hazem Suleiman and Mona Abu Amer struggle to cope with the psychological scars left behind.
Hazem Suleiman, who lost a significant amount of weight fleeing Israeli airstrikes, carries the weight of witnessing horrific violence. The article details the constant fear and anxiety that permeates his life and that of his family, highlighting the lasting impact of the conflict on his mental well-being. Mona Abu Amer, living in a flimsy tent with her young children, is plagued by constant fear and stress. Her inability to breastfeed her infant due to the stress underscores the devastating effects of the conflict on the most vulnerable.
The scale of the trauma is vast, with over two million people in Gaza having experienced or witnessed violent events. UNICEF estimates that nearly all of Gaza's 1.2 million children require mental health support. Children, who have lost their homes and sense of security, are particularly vulnerable to developing severe mental health issues. The article details the challenges faced by mental health workers like Israa Al-Qahwaji, who strive to provide support sessions and grounding techniques to help children cope with the aftermath of war. These efforts are hindered by the ongoing trauma and the lack of basic necessities for many families.
Despite the efforts of relief workers, the article concludes with a somber outlook. The sheer magnitude of the trauma, the lack of resources, and the continuing challenges of survival in Gaza paint a bleak picture of the long-term consequences of the conflict. While individuals like Suleiman and Abu Amer find solace in basic acts of survival, the weight of the memories and the threat of future violence continue to cast a long shadow over their lives.
Source: The Damage You Cannot See: One Year and Counting, Gaza War Leaves Lifelong Mental Scars In Its Wake