‘It’s a really scary time’: How the Israel-Hamas war is impacting mental health
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The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas is taking a toll on mental health, not only for those directly affected but also for people around the world.
Experts say the intense media coverage, coupled with existing anxieties, is leading too increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of helplessness.
“It’s a really scary time for a lot of people,” said Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist and professor of psychiatry at the University of Southern California. “We’re seeing a lot of vicarious trauma,even in people who aren’t directly connected to the conflict.”
For those directly impacted:
- Individuals in Israel and Gaza are experiencing profound trauma due to loss, displacement, and ongoing violence.
- Mental health services in the region are overwhelmed.
- The long-term psychological effects could be critically important.
For those following the news:
- Constant exposure to graphic images and stories can lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms.
- Social media amplifies the impact, with misinformation and emotionally charged content spreading rapidly.
- People may feel helpless and overwhelmed by the scale of the crisis.
what can you do to protect your mental health?
- Limit your exposure to news: Stay informed, but avoid constant checking.
- Focus on what you can control: Engage in activities that bring you a sense of purpose and calm.
- Connect with others: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings.
- Practice self-care: Prioritize sleep, healthy eating, and exercise.
- Seek professional help: If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional.
“It’s important to remember that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed,” Durvasula said. “Taking care of your mental health is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.”
Resources:
Hanguk Ilbo Article Snippet
This appears to be a fragment of an article from the South Korean newspaper, Hanguk Ilbo.The visible text consists primarily of metadata and article section headings in Korean, with limited discernible content in English.
The author identified is Lee Tae-hoon, with the email address frozen@hankookilbo.com.
A section heading translates to “Popular Issue Articles,” suggesting the article relates to current events or trending topics. The specific issue is described as ”Real estate market trends.”
As of January 23, 2026, there are no readily available English translations or summaries of the full article content. Further research would require translation tools or access to the original Korean publication.
