IN A NUTSHELL
Editor's Note  "What we need is not just more funding, but a deeper understanding: mental health is not a luxury. It is an indispensable foundation. Without it, children cannot learn, adults cannot function, and communities cannot heal" 

First-hand reflections here where the Author draws from her field of experience in mental health and psychosocial support in conflict-affected settings

By Rasha Almashhra 

Specialist in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support

Damascus, Syria

 Mental Health in Crisis Zones

A Personal Look at Hidden Wounds

 

In conflict-affected settings, mental health is often overlooked in the most critical aspects of humanitarian response. We talk about food, water, and shelter, but the silent wounds left by war, displacement, and loss are rarely addressed with the same urgency.

With my long experience in mental health and psychosocial support, I have witnessed firsthand how unaddressed trauma can quietly undermine entire communities.
In Syria, as in so many conflict zones, people are trying to rebuild their lives in the ruins of their homes, not just in the ruins of trust, safety, and meaning. Children draw pictures of tanks instead of trees. Mothers silently grieve for the children they have lost, while trying to stay strong for those who are still alive. Teenagers withdraw into silence. Men carry the burden of broken livelihoods with a steadfastness that only cracks behind closed doors.

But through it all, I have seen resilience. I’ve seen women create safe spaces in devastated schools, sharing stories and laughter. I’ve facilitated emotional support groups where strangers become allies in healing. I’ve worked with frontline workers: teachers, nurses, and volunteers who serve others while carrying their own hidden burdens.

Sadly, stigma remains a major barrier. Many still equate seeking mental health support with vulnerability or instability. The lack of culturally appropriate services and trained professionals exacerbates this. Yet, simple interventions like creating safe spaces to talk, integrating psychosocial support into schools and health centers, or simply listening without judgment can make a huge difference.

What we need is not just more funding, but a deeper understanding: mental health is not a luxury. It is an indispensable foundation. Without it, children cannot learn, adults cannot function, and communities cannot heal.

Mental health should be viewed as part of a “One Health” approach that addresses physical well-being, environmental conditions, and social structures. While the world rightly focuses on equitable access to medicine and healthcare, let’s not forget that healing the mind is just as important as healing the body.