A recent study on the mental “health” of adults in the Gaza Strip showed that psychological distress has tripled in the last five years, with a sharp increase following the escalation of the conflict in October 2023.
The study, published in the journal “eClinicalMedicine,” relied on the analysis of data from 677 people aged 40 years or older who participated in three household surveys conducted in 2020, 2023, and 2025.
Sharp Rise in Psychological Distress
The results revealed a rise in the percentage of adults suffering from high levels of psychological distress, such as depression, insomnia, constant feelings of tension, and a lack of feeling of self-worth, from about 20% in 2020 and 2023 to more than 67% in early 2025.
This increase was observed in all demographic groups, reflecting the widespread mental health challenges associated with violence, displacement, and the destruction of infrastructure.
Impact of Displacement
Notably, more than 99% of the participants reported experiencing at least one displacement by 2025, with an average of 4 displacements per person.
According to “Medical Xpress,” the researchers emphasize that these findings should serve as an important basis for decision-makers and humanitarian organizations working to mitigate the psychological impact of conflict in Gaza and other war-affected areas around the world.
They also call for the provision of comprehensive and long-term mental health services and psychosocial support in Gaza, in addition to ongoing international efforts to strengthen mental health services, strengthen community resilience, and support recovery efforts.
