RC blog: ‘It will take years to help people deal with the invisible consequences of war’
Posted on 1 January 2025
By Randa Habib
The invisible consequences of war are often the most devastating. They can include mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They can also include physical health problems, such as chronic pain, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.
These problems can make it difficult for people to lead normal lives. They can affect their ability to work, go to school, or even take care of themselves. In some cases, they can even lead to suicide.
The war in Syria has had a devastating impact on the mental health of the Syrian people. A study by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that nearly half of all Syrians have experienced mental health problems since the war began.
The study also found that children are particularly vulnerable to the mental health effects of war. Children who have been exposed to violence are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and PTSD. They are also more likely to have problems with sleep, eating, and concentration.
The invisible consequences of war are not just a problem for Syria. They are a problem for every country that has been affected by war. In Iraq, for example, a study by the Iraqi Ministry of Health found that nearly one-third of all Iraqis have experienced mental health problems since the war began.
The mental health effects of war can last for years, even after the war is over. A study by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs found that veterans of the Vietnam War were still experiencing mental health problems 30 years after the war ended.
There is no easy way to help people deal with the invisible consequences of war. But there are some things that can be done.
One important step is to provide mental health services to those who need them. These services can include counseling, medication, and support groups.
Another important step is to raise awareness of the mental health effects of war. This can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental health problems and make it easier for people to get the help they need.
The invisible consequences of war are a serious problem, but they are not insurmountable. With the right help, people can recover from the trauma of war and rebuild their lives.
About the author:
Randa Habib is a Syrian journalist and human rights activist. She is the founder of the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression, a non-profit organization that supports freedom of expression and access to information in Syria.
RC blog: ‘It will take years to help people deal with the invisible consequences of war’
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