A study of Gaza’s children has found that 96% feel their death is imminent, and 49% wish to die due to trauma, The Guardian reported.
Conducted by a Gaza-based NGO with support from War Child Alliance, the survey also revealed severe psychological distress: 92% of children struggle to accept reality, 79% suffer nightmares, and 73% display aggression.
The assessment, based on interviews with caregivers of 504 children, highlights the impact of war, including displacement, loss of loved ones, and exposure to bombings. Over 60% of children surveyed experienced traumatic events, with many exposed to multiple incidents. An estimated 17,000 children are unaccompanied, placing them at risk of exploitation and abuse.
Children exhibit symptoms like anxiety, nightmares, social withdrawal, and physical distress. Nearly half of Gaza’s population has been displaced, with children making up a significant portion. The UN reports 44% of Gaza’s verified fatalities are children.
War Child and its partners have provided mental health support to 17,000 children but aim to reach a million. Helen Pattinson, CEO of War Child UK, warned of multigenerational trauma if urgent action isn’t taken.
