The Mental Health Crisis in Humanitarian Emergencies

World Mental Health Day 2025 highlighted the severe mental health challenges faced by populations in conflict-affected regions, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 123 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide, with 71% residing in low- and middle-income countries where healthcare systems are already strained. In these regions, the mental health burden is exacerbated by ongoing violence, displacement, and the loss of familiar environments. Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, emphasized the dire situation, stating, “A world where children would rather die than live is a terrible world with terrifying consequences.”

World Mental Health Day: Invisible Wounds Across the Eastern MediterraneanMental health must be treated as a lifeline in crises: Dr Nuvotso Khesoh

The WHO's Regional Action Plan for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergencies (2024–2030) aims to integrate mental health services into emergency response frameworks. This includes training frontline health workers in psychological first aid and providing mobile clinics for displaced communities. In Syria, nearly 50% of primary healthcare centers now offer integrated mental health services. Despite these efforts, the psychological scars of conflict remain deep, with many individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.

World Mental Health Day: Invisible Wounds Across the Eastern MediterraneanMental health must be treated as a lifeline in crises: Dr Nuvotso Khesoh

Clinical psychologist Nour Assi in Lebanon noted that the ongoing conflict has intensified mental health issues among the population. “Many people describe feeling constantly on edge, hopeless or disconnected,” she reported. This sentiment reflects a broader trend observed in various conflict zones, where mental health concerns are often overshadowed by immediate physical needs.

World Mental Health Day: Invisible Wounds Across the Eastern Mediterranean

Despite the WHO's initiatives, critics argue that mental health remains an afterthought in humanitarian responses. In Nigeria, for instance, experts have called for a shift in focus to include mental health in disaster response plans, as millions are affected by frequent catastrophes. Dr. Olayinka Atilola highlighted that mental health interventions are often neglected, stating, “These are not random events; they happen to real people.”

Experts decry worsening mental health crisis due to frequent disasters

The WHO has been proactive in addressing mental health needs in crisis situations. Dr. Balkhy reiterated the organization's commitment, saying, “At WHO, we see access to mental health services as a fundamental human right.” Meanwhile, in Gaza, the WHO reported that over one million people require urgent mental health support, with services falling short of demand.

While the WHO and various mental health advocates emphasize the urgent need for mental health services in conflict zones, there are discrepancies in the availability and effectiveness of these services. Reports from different regions indicate varying levels of access and support, highlighting a significant gap in mental health infrastructure during emergencies.

World Mental Health Day: Invisible Wounds Across the Eastern Mediterranean

As the world observes World Mental Health Day, the need for comprehensive mental health support in humanitarian emergencies is more pressing than ever. The integration of mental health services into emergency response frameworks is essential to address the psychological toll of conflict and instability. Stakeholders must prioritize mental health as a critical component of humanitarian aid to ensure that affected populations receive the support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.

Mental health must be treated as a lifeline in crises: Dr Nuvotso KhesohWorld Mental Health Day: Invisible Wounds Across the Eastern Mediterranean