NEW STUDY: A recent study reveals that the ongoing Gaza conflict is causing severe mental distress among Arab-Australian women, as they grapple with anxiety for loved ones caught in the violence. Researchers from the University of NSW found that these women experience heightened panic disorder symptoms, significantly impacting their daily lives.
As the conflict escalates, with reports confirming that 17,000 children are among those affected by Israel’s military actions since October 7, 2023, the emotional toll on women connected to the region intensifies. This urgent situation demands immediate attention and support.
The longitudinal study assessed the mental health of 410 women linked to Gaza, the occupied Palestinian Territories, and Lebanon, comparing their experiences to those of Australian-born and other migrant women. Lead author Susan Rees emphasized that symptoms such as rapid heart rate and dizziness manifest as direct responses to the ongoing violence, stating, “It’s like a panic attack, but it’s very much tied to a particular event.”
Participants reported feeling overwhelmed by memories of personal trauma, including fleeing violence and losing family members. One participant described her experience as feeling like a robot, functioning yet disconnected from daily life. “You’re just thinking all the time about your family and what’s going on,” she shared, highlighting the emotional burden faced by many.
Another woman recounted sleepless nights spent urging family in southern Lebanon to evacuate amid fears of impending attacks. “They can’t protect them directly on the ground and are trying to do it from thousands of kilometers away,” Prof. Rees noted, underlining the helplessness felt by those far removed from the violence.
This study underscores the urgent need for targeted clinical interventions to address the mental health crisis affecting a significant population in Australia. Without timely support, the psychological consequences for these women could be long-lasting and devastating.
As the conflict continues, authorities and mental health organizations like Lifeline and beyondblue are urged to step up support efforts for those in distress. The emotional impact of this conflict is not confined to the battlefield; it reverberates across oceans, affecting families and communities worldwide.
This developing story not only highlights the urgent need for action but also calls for greater awareness of the mental health implications of war on those living abroad. As the situation evolves, more insights and support mechanisms will be crucial to help those suffering in silence.
