What's happened
Following two years of intense conflict, Gaza's population faces a mental health surge. Over 68,000 deaths, widespread homelessness, and hunger have overwhelmed local services. The ceasefire has triggered a spike in mental health needs, with hospitals strained and children suffering from trauma and shortages.
What's behind the headline?
The mental health crisis in Gaza reflects the profound psychological toll of prolonged conflict. The surge in patients seeking care indicates a breakdown of social and health infrastructure, exacerbated by damaged facilities and limited resources. The stigma around mental health has diminished, revealing widespread trauma among children and adults. This situation underscores the urgent need for international aid and reconstruction efforts to address both physical and psychological wounds. The current spike in mental health issues may have long-term consequences, including increased social instability and generational trauma, unless substantial support is provided. The crisis also highlights how conflict zones often overlook mental health, despite its critical role in recovery and resilience.
What the papers say
The Japan Times, Arab News, and Reuters all report a significant increase in mental health issues in Gaza following the recent ceasefire. While all sources agree on the scale of trauma and resource limitations, Arab News emphasizes the impact on children and the conditions of mental health facilities, describing the hospital's damage and resource sharing as 'insulting.' Reuters highlights the ongoing violence since the ceasefire and the broader context of the conflict's toll, including the initial attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed around 1,200 people. The Japan Times focuses on the surge in treatment seeking and the psychological effects, noting the decline in stigma and the eruption of trauma among patients. The consensus underscores a humanitarian crisis driven by conflict, with mental health emerging as a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of Gaza's recovery.
How we got here
The ongoing conflict in Gaza, marked by Israeli bombardments and military incursions, has resulted in significant civilian casualties and destruction. The recent ceasefire, initiated on October 10, 2025, temporarily halts major hostilities but leaves many residents traumatized. Mental health services have been severely impacted by damage to facilities and resource shortages, leading to a surge in demand for psychological support amid ongoing hardships.
Go deeper
More on these topics