Children in Gaza are facing an unprecedented mental health crisis.
Decades of conflict, coupled with recent escalations, have deeply affected every child, parent, and caregiver in Gaza. The absence of safety, constant violence, and forced displacement have created an environment where trauma is widespread.
Over half a million children needed mental health support even before the latest conflict. Now, relentless bombings and displacement have left many children in shock, experiencing nightmares, bedwetting, and seeking safety under beds. Caregivers report that loud noises trigger fear, with children clinging to others for comfort.
Gaza’s education system has also collapsed, depriving children of not only schooling but also the safe spaces schools used to provide. The destruction of school buildings means many have missed an entire year of education, delaying learning and development by up to five years.
17,000 children separated from their families
The conflict has left thousands of children separated or unaccompanied, making them vulnerable to exploitation and neglect. Families like Ataf’s, displaced ten times in a year, face constant fear.
The IRC Steps In
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is working with local partners to provide mental health support, safe spaces, and life-saving medical care. Programs like those run by community facilitator Nour are helping children regain hope. “We have to keep moving forward for Gaza,” he says.
The IRC calls for a lasting ceasefire to protect Palestinian lives and ensure children can begin healing.
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