Rafia Ahmed
War, a harrowing ordeal that reverberates far beyond the battlegrounds, exacts a profound toll on the minds of those caught in its merciless grip. Examining the nexus between war, human psychology, and the heartbreaking reality faced by the people and children in Gaza offers a sobering glimpse into the enduring consequences of conflict.
The human mind, resilient yet vulnerable, becomes a casualty of war’s relentless onslaught. Since the 7th of October, the relentless passage of days and weeks has left an indelible mark on the psychological well-being of the people enduring the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While their imaan and taqwa stand resolute, the scenes unfolding amid the chaos paint a grim picture of the toll on the exhausted minds. For children, the impact is particularly severe, with psychological scars etched deep into the developing canvas of their minds.
Children, in the midst of their formative years, confront a crucible of traumatic experiences that leave indelible imprints on their psyche. The constant threat of violence, loss of loved ones, and the upheaval of familiar surroundings disrupt the normal course of cognitive and emotional development.
Child psychology provides a lens through which we can comprehend the profound effects of war on young minds. The developing brain, adaptable and sensitive, is particularly susceptible to the stressors imposed by conflict. The amygdala, the emotional center, undergoes heightened activation, contributing to persistent feelings of fear and anxiety. Simultaneously, the prefrontal cortex, responsible for cognitive functions and emotional regulation, may be compromised, impairing a child’s ability to cope with and understand their emotions. Children in war-torn regions often grapple with a range of mental health challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. The long-term consequences extend beyond the immediate impact of conflict, influencing interpersonal relationships, educational attainment, and overall life satisfaction.
Gaza, a region marred by protracted conflict, exemplifies the distressing reality faced by children caught in the crossfire. The constant threat of violence, restricted access to basic necessities, and the erosion of a stable environment create a breeding ground for psychological trauma. The normalization of conflict becomes an additional layer of complexity, shaping the worldview of children who have known little else.
Witnessing a 9-year-old child stoically collecting the remnants of shattered bodies, remnants of lives destroyed by bombs, is a haunting image that encapsulates the desensitization born out of prolonged conflict. The child’s expression, devoid of terror or agony, speaks volumes about the normalization of a horror that no child should ever witness, let alone endure.
These babies, innocent souls thrust into a world of violence, deserve safety, protection, happiness, and peace above all. The stark reality is a stark departure from these fundamental rights. The psychological impact on these children is a silent, insidious wound inflicted by the terrors of war.
Innocence should not be sacrificed on the altar of conflict. The normalcy with which these children navigate a landscape of destruction is a stark indictment of the abnormal conditions they are forced to endure. The desire for safety, protection, happiness, and peace, the very essence of childhood, is eclipsed by the terrifying reality of their daily existence.
The international community bears a collective responsibility to address the plight of children in conflict zones. Urgent action is needed to implement an immediate ceasefire and restore the rights of the people and children of Gaza, with the paramount right to live peacefully at the forefront. Humanitarian efforts must extend beyond immediate relief to encompass long-term psychological support. Educational programs promoting resilience and mental health literacy can empower children to navigate the psychological challenges imposed by war and envision a future beyond the scars of their past.
In conclusion, the distressing reality unfolding since the 7th of October demands an immediate cessation. The occupation forces and their proponents, fueled by hatred and injustice, must be halted to prevent further loss of lives and the continued deterioration of the psychological and emotional well-being of those surviving in Gaza. Our fervent prayers and hopes are directed towards putting an end to this oppression. Peace be upon the brave warriors of Gaza, all the brave ones who are surviving this heart wrenching time with a smile on their faces and imaan in their hearts.
The writer is a psychology student and an educator. Her research and writing interests revolve around child psychology, the human mind and dynamics of behavioral health.