Mental Health: Heal the “Invisible Wounds”
Depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are widespread among populations affected by war, representing a significant health crisis —an often invisible yet profoundly impactful issue. In response to these “invisible wounds,” Mehad provides comprehensive mental health and psychosocial support services.
In Syria, where we operate, the ongoing stigma surrounding mental health poses a considerable challenge. If not addressed, this issue could have devastating consequences for future generations in an environment marked by violence and loss. Today, countless lives are deeply affected by the war, resulting in psychological, emotional, and mental distress linked to the economic, humanitarian, physical, and medical ramifications of the conflict.
Recognizing the urgency of this situation, we prioritize the delivery of comprehensive mental health and psychosocial support services. It is equally essential to raise awareness among communities that may be reluctant or even hostile to psychological and psychiatric care, often failing to acknowledge that the aftermath of war affects both body and mind. Since 2013, Mehad has implemented a mental health and psychosocial support program that includes:
- Mental health services available at all our primary health centers
- Telephone helpline for immediate support
- Case assessment and medication prescriptions provided by a psychiatrist in our mobile mental health clinics
- A dedicated psychological support team to ensure patient follow-up through ongoing sessions
- Awareness sessions on mental health disorders and parenting skills, helping parents in the region manage their children’s behavior and address war-related issues
In Ukraine, Mehad has initiated a project focused on rehabilitating individuals wounded by the war in the Vinnytsia and Kyiv regions. This project employs an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together physiotherapists, psychologists, and social workers to provide comprehensive care.
Beyond facilitating physical recovery, a key objective of the program is to enhance the quality of life for the injured and offer psychological support to help them cope with trauma. Given the long-term challenges facing the Ukrainian healthcare system, Mehad leverages its expertise in caring for injured patients to support their complete recovery.
Our Perspectives
The work on mental health for conflict victims in Syria and Ukraine is ongoing and remains a critical focus. As the conflicts continue, Mehad and other medical NGOs must stay vigilant, actively listening to the needs of the populations, raising awareness, and providing suitable care pathways. The stigma surrounding mental health persists, but we must lead the charge in challenging misconceptions to change mindsets and support the most vulnerable individuals.
Rahaf: “No human being deserves to experience that.”
At just 13 years old, Rahaf has already faced the horrors of war and the fear of death during an earthquake. She has lost loved ones, including her father. Her words resonate with stark truth: “There are events you believe could never happen, yet they do. No human being is prepared to go through that. Some people say I’m just a little girl who will forget, but there are moments you can never forget.”
Her testimony underscores the profound impact of loss and displacement on the minds of young people. It serves as a powerful reminder of the critical need for appropriate psychological support in the wake of such trauma.
Oleksandr: Healing Body and Soul
When I first arrived, I couldn’t move my arm or handle objects properly,” shares Oleksandr, a patient under Mehad’s care who was injured in a missile strike. “The therapists have done everything they could to help me regain full use of my arm quickly,” he explains. “This includes massages, electrical stimulation, and a range of physical exercises, like arm stretching.”
Larysa, the psychologist, also helped me work through my negative thoughts, and the social worker was there to support me right from the moment I was admitted to the rehabilitation center.
*The name has been changed.
