MHPSS MIDDLE EAST

Trauma reduction for vulnerable groups in Israel

Following the October 7th attack on the south of Israel, the Middle East is experiencing a serious escalation of the conflict. This situation is having a major impact on the entire population, both Jewish and Arab, and has led to a drastic reduction of physical safety and very high levels of trauma and mental stress. The psychological and physiological toll of such traumatic experiences is profound and manifests itself in various ways that disrupt daily life.

The project aims to provide important mental health support and trauma relief to vulnerable groups affected by the recent escalation in the Middle East conflict, with a focus on improving mental well-being and fostering resilience. We support various vulnerable groups, including minors and minorities with an Arab background, unaccompanied minors from the Russia/Ukraine conflict as well as frontline communities. In order to provide support to the affected vulnerable groups, we have established a MHPSS team that offers art and music therapy workshops at a resilience center near the line of conflict, as well as at other flexible locations. Additionally, we offer various MHPSS services, including art therapy workshops, psychosocial group therapy sessions, and individual therapy sessions at three school accommodation facilities for both students and teachers.