Do you think all of us are mentally sick because of this horror? Mental health under genocide in Gaza

Purpose The ongoing genocide in Gaza represents one of the most catastrophic humanitarian crises in recent history, causing unprecedented physical and psychological damage to two million civilians. This study aims to explore the features and aftermath of Israel’s genocidal campaign against Gazan civilians, focusing on their experiences and psychological responses. Design/methodology/approach A purposive convenience sample of 26 participants was interviewed in the field during the bombardments in the Gaza Strip. Findings The findings, derived from thematic content analysis, highlight five main themes: unprecedented violence and genocide, deliberate attempts to make Gaza unlivable, devastating impacts on families and communities, early psychological responses and daily acts of resistance for survival. This examination reveals the psycho-political features of genocidal intent perpetrated by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Gazans’ survival skills in the wake of genocide, emphasizing the necessity of acknowledging the political and colonial determinants of suffering and resistance in Palestine. Genocide, as discussed by Jean-Paul Sartre and supported by our data, combines organized violence and war aimed at ethnic cleansing by colonizing powers. The systematic use of violence by the IDF has led to severe dehumanization and degradation of Palestinian life, manifesting in both physical and psychological annihilation. The psychological reactions of the Palestinian people include defensive mechanisms to cope with imminent threats and efforts to find meaning and resist the horror they face daily. Originality/value This study provides critical insights into the psychological and social impacts of mass violence and advocates for integrating human rights-oriented models into mental health frameworks.