Full Breakdown
Psychological Trauma in Gaza: A Growing Crisis
11/4/2025, 8:47:36 PM
The Impact of Military Campaigns on Mental Health
Residents of the Gaza Strip are experiencing severe psychological trauma as a result of Israel's military operations, which have persisted for two years and resulted in over 68,000 fatalities, according to local health authorities. The recent ceasefire, effective October 10, 2023, has led to a significant increase in individuals seeking mental health services, as noted by Abdallah al-Jamal, head of the Gaza City Mental Health Hospital team. He described the situation as a "volcano" of psychological distress, with many now willing to seek help despite previous stigmas associated with mental health treatment.
The Gaza City Mental Health Hospital has been forced to operate from a nearby clinic due to damage sustained during the conflict. Al-Jamal reported that the hospital is currently seeing over 100 patients daily, a marked increase from pre-conflict levels. Symptoms among children include night terrors and an inability to focus, exacerbated by ongoing shortages of food, water, and shelter.
Long-Term Psychological Effects
Survivors of the conflict, such as Mariam Abu al-Kas, who lost her family in an airstrike, illustrate the deep psychological scars left by the violence. Experts indicate that many individuals are suffering from "emotional numbness," a condition that can lead to chronic depression if left untreated. Gaza-based psychologist Salem Abu Taha emphasized the need for urgent group therapy programs to help residents process their grief and rebuild their confidence.
The Gaza Community Mental Health Program reported that nearly 68% of the population is experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The report highlighted that 96% of children feel that death is imminent, and 87% experience persistent fear and nightmares. Al-Jamal warned that the continuation of trauma, coupled with a lack of psychiatric medication and trained staff, could result in long-term mental health issues.
Humanitarian Aid and Educational Disruption
Despite the ceasefire, humanitarian aid has been insufficient. The World Food Programme reported that only half of the necessary food supplies are reaching Gaza, with many families still struggling to meet basic needs. UNICEF has established temporary learning spaces for children, but these facilities face long waitlists, and many children remain out of formal education. Before the conflict, 98% of children in Gaza had access to education, but now, over 650,000 school-aged children have been out of school for more than two years.
UNICEF and other humanitarian agencies are calling for increased access to aid, including educational materials and mental health support, which have been severely restricted. The lack of adequate shelter and nutrition, especially with winter approaching, poses additional risks to the mental and physical well-being of Gaza's residents.
Official Statements & Responses
Abdallah al-Jamal stated, "The vast majority of Gazans suffer from moderate to severe psychological disorders due to continuous fear and lack of safety." He emphasized that mental recovery must be linked to broader reconstruction efforts, asserting that "people cannot heal while fearing that the bombing may resume at any moment."
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that the humanitarian response has been inadequate, with many aid organizations highlighting the urgent need for a more substantial and consistent flow of supplies into Gaza. Humanitarian agencies have expressed concern over the lack of access to essential items, including medical supplies and educational materials, which are crucial for the recovery of both individuals and the community.
What's Next
As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, mental health specialists and humanitarian organizations are advocating for comprehensive support systems that address both immediate needs and long-term recovery strategies. The focus remains on ensuring that psychological interventions are part of a broader plan for stability and reconstruction in the region.
