Gaza: In the aftermath of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, child survivors in Gaza are grappling with severe psychological distress, prompting local initiatives to address their mental well-being. Mohammed al-Amasi and a group of volunteers have launched an education-through-fun program, visiting schools-turned-refugee centers across Gaza to engage displaced children and their families in activities like drawing, story-telling, singing, and playing with clowns.

Al-Amasi emphasized the profound impact of the conflict on children, stating that many have yet to recover from the psychological shocks of previous wars. The current conflict has seen child survivors struggling with persistent thoughts and fears related to death, even after narrowly escaping attacks.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza, with over 2.3 million people affected, including limited access to essentials and a collapsing health system, child survivors face additional challenges. The Gaza-based health ministry reported that Israeli strikes have claimed the lives of at least 10,569 Palestinians, including 4,324 children, with nearly 1.5 million Palestinians internally displaced.

The dire security situation has led some children to exhibit self-isolation and other involuntary reactions from trauma, while others have become more violent. Parents, like Suzan Ayyad, shared concerns about their children losing bladder control during daytime, triggered by the sound of bombings.

The education-through-fun program aims not only to help children release stress but also to provide a sense of control and belonging. Heba Al-Rayes, one of the program's organizers, highlighted the importance of such activities in allowing children to express themselves and feel cared for.

Psychological expert Fadel Abu Hin acknowledged the varying impact of conflicts on individuals, noting the development of mental illnesses and increased hostility. Despite the challenges, local efforts in Gaza to support child mental health were praised. Abu Hin emphasized the critical need for psychological support for conflict survivors, highlighting the lasting traumas from witnessing violence and destruction.