The Mental Health Toll of the Middle East Crisis

The Middle East crisis is causing a massive wave of mental health problems, according to Dr. Sandro Galea, dean of the School of Public Health at Boston University. He describes it as a ‘tsunami’ of poor mental health in the region. The ongoing war in the Middle East, with Hamas attacks in Israel and Israel’s bombing campaign in Gaza, has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people. Studies have shown that traumatic events like war can lead to a significant increase in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.

In the aftermath of 9/11, Galea and his colleagues conducted a study on the mental health impact of the attacks. They found that a large percentage of adults in New York City and neighboring areas reported symptoms of PTSD and depression. These rates were much higher than the national average. While some individuals experienced a decline in symptoms after six months, a significant number continued to struggle with chronic mental health issues.

The toll on mental health is also evident in the current Middle East crisis. Israel’s mental health hotline has seen a surge in calls following the recent Hamas attacks. People are grappling with the loss of loved ones, witnessing death and destruction, and facing the challenges of daily life amidst the conflict. Those directly affected by the trauma are at the highest risk of developing mental illnesses. Chronic symptoms are more likely in individuals who have experienced prior traumas and ongoing stressors in their lives.

The work of crisis counselors at the mental health hotline has become increasingly challenging. They have had to train more volunteers to handle the overwhelming number of calls. The emotional toll on the staff and volunteers is significant, as they themselves are dealing with their own trauma and grief. The callers describe symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and difficulty sleeping. Counselors reassure them that these reactions are normal in traumatic circumstances, but for those in need of further care, referrals are made to mental health clinics.

The situation in Gaza is particularly dire. With millions of people displaced and seeking safety from airstrikes, the continuous stress takes a toll on their mental health. Limited access to basic necessities like electricity, water, and food adds to the distress. Palestinian-American psychologist Iman Farajallah, who grew up in Gaza, is deeply concerned about her family’s well-being. She has lost neighbors and family members in the recent conflict, including children. The impact of past conflicts on the mental health of children and adolescents in Gaza has already been documented. Symptoms such as cognitive difficulties, social withdrawal, and fear are prevalent among the young population.

The current crisis exacerbates the existing trauma and creates a continuous cycle of distress. Farajallah describes it as a ‘continuous trauma’ that affects almost the entire population of Gaza. The high rates of PTSD and depression in the region reflect the ongoing suffering and chronic exposure to violence. The long-term mental health consequences are a cause for concern, as the trauma continues to affect individuals and the nation as a whole.

The mental health toll of the Middle East crisis cannot be underestimated. The impact on individuals, families, and communities is profound. It is crucial to prioritize mental health support and resources to address the long-lasting effects of trauma and promote healing and resilience.