Sourced fact
The News
The suffering of Gaza's residents continues for three years, witnessing a wave of killing, destruction, and ongoing despair. According to UN data, the death toll has exceeded 74,000 individuals, including over 1,400 since the so-called "truce" began last October. Additionally, many have died due to a lack of healthcare.
The writer notes that survivors of this crisis suffer from continuous psychological trauma that they cannot heal from due to the ongoing violence. Estimates suggest that over a million children in Gaza need psychological support, with 96 percent of them feeling that death is imminent. Around 61 percent of young adults and the elderly suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), while 38 percent suffer from depression and 41 percent from anxiety.
One researcher stated that about 88 percent of adults in Gaza suffer from PTSD. According to data, half of the children in Gaza were experiencing PTSD symptoms three months after the conflicts, and this number rose to 71 percent of adults by 2022.
The writer describes his personal experience in Gaza, witnessing massive destruction in residential areas. In the first two months of the conflict, six houses in his nearby neighborhood were bombed, resulting in the death of 60 neighbors. His younger sister, mother, and the writer himself were also injured by nearby shelling.
The writer notes that the ongoing conflict extends beyond traditional military combat. He says, "I never expected to see what I saw in Gaza. Continuous shelling, smoke, and fear. All of this leaves an indelible mark." He adds that he feels numb and in shock, finding it hard to focus and smile.
The writer concludes his article by saying, "Stories and literature no longer move or shock me as they used to. I have seen death and watched the world look on without intervention."
Analysis & context
Analysis & Context
Analytically, the numbers point to the scale of the psychological crisis facing Gaza's residents. In a broader context, this crisis affects future generations, with children and youth suffering from severe psychological trauma. The ongoing conflict impedes recovery, exacerbating their suffering. At the same time, residents face a severe shortage of healthcare, making recovery even more challenging.
