Behind the Rubble: Psychological trauma of wars and human rights abuses on women and children in Gaza

This paper examines the severe psychological trauma experienced by women and children in Gaza, resulting from prolonged conflict, occupation, and repeated Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) assaults. The Israeli blockade and frequent attacks have generated a pervasive environment of violence that continuously undermines the mental health of Gaza’s population, with women and children being particularly vulnerable. Many are affected by Complex Continuous Traumatic Stress (CCTS), a condition arising from chronic trauma exposure without respite. This trauma has manifested in significant mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, developmental delays, and cognitive impairments. The genocidal violence since October 7th, 2023, has intensified these issues, with indiscriminate killings and the destruction of essential infrastructure further devastating the population. While mental health interventions have been proposed, this paper argues that meaningful psychological recovery requires addressing the root causes of the ongoing conflict. It concludes that the mental health crisis in Gaza is deeply interconnected with the Israeli Occupation and that a comprehensive approach involving the restoration of fundamental human rights and the cessation of hostilities is essential for true psychological healing.