THE IMPACTS OF WAR ON CIVILIAN POPULATIONS

The psychological impacts of war on civilian populations are profound, often devastating, and far-reaching. Civilians account for the vast majority of casualties in war and they experience destruction, displacement, fear, and post-traumatic stress in the aftermath of war. It’s been estimated that nearly half of all people living in war-torn countries are affected by psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or substance abuse. War escalates existing mental health problems, and can create new health concerns, even in those who were previously healthy. Long-term studies have shown that exposure to war-related trauma causes a range of negative mental health symptoms. These can include anxiety, depression, intrusive memories, dissociative symptoms, insomnia, decrease in well-being, increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour, and emotional numbing. It’s easy for anyone to understand how war can affect the mental health of individuals who are directly exposed to violence. But the effects of war on mental health can be far-reaching.

This problem is global, as it affects civilians in virtually every country that faces the effects of war. Behind the physical destruction is the psychological oppression faced by civilian populations living in a war zone. This psychological tension is caused by the intense bombardment of dangerous, chaotic events and living in constant fear of the possibility of death. This leads to several mental health consequences including higher levels of depression, sleep disturbances, flashbacks, problems with concentration and attention, and behaviour problems. These psychological consequences of war often go unrecognized and untreated.

This lack of recognition can lead to feelings of helplessness, lack of control, or feeling as if one cannot make a difference. This in turn can lead to a serious decline in one’s mental health. It can also be a long-term effect, with civilians feeling hopeless and frustrated long after the war has ended and peace has been restored. War also has been linked to the disruption of social cohesion, which can lead to reduced school attendance and academic performance. High unemployment rates can further increase the psychological distress of the civilian population. In addition, the psychological consequences of war also affect the mental health of children and adolescents living in the war zone. Among children, recurrent nightmares, bedwetting, stomach aches, and concentration problems are common in those affected by war-related trauma. These effects can significantly impair children’s cognitive and social development and put them at risk for long-term mental health problems. The mental health consequences of war on civilian populations can be extremely far-reaching and devastating.

The fear of war can cause long-term psychological effects on those who are not physically exposed to the violence but who are close to it. This fear can linger in the minds of those who are worried about the safety of loved ones, who face economic hardship, or who are fearful of displacement. In addition to direct exposure to violence, civilian populations can experience secondary re-traumatization due to the loss of loved ones, destruction of their homes, displacement from their native lands, economic losses, and drastic changes in their way of life.

Furthermore, individuals who are victims of humanitarian crises, such as those created by refugee outflows, often face worse psychological effects due to a lack of access to mental health services, social support, and necessities. Whether the consequences of war are measured in terms of human casualties or the evaluation of psychological health, it is evident that war and its consequences devastatingly impact civilians. Working towards peace and stability in conflict-ridden societies is essential for protecting civilian populations suffering from the impacts of war. Moreover, providing psychological support to those affected is urgently needed to address the mental health consequences of war.

The aftermath of war can be a challenging time for those involved. From physical and psychological injuries to the loss of loved ones to displacement and financial insecurity, the effects of war can be overwhelming. However, while it is important to acknowledge the gravity of these challenges, it is also important to recognize that surviving and recovering from war is possible.

Here are some methods to help you pull through during and after the war:

1. Connect with Others: During this difficult time, it’s important to establish a support network. Connect with other survivors to share stories, and experiences, and support one another. Reach out to family, friends, or organizations for help and guidance.

2. Reunite with Loved Ones: Reuniting with friends and family who have gone through the same experience as you can be a great source of comfort. Reconnecting with loved ones can help you process difficult emotions and provide you with a sense of safety and security.

3. Get Supportive Mental Healthcare: Talking to a mental health professional can be crucial for survivors of war. If you are feeling overwhelmed by emotions, speak with a therapist to cope and process your trauma.

4. Pursue Education: Continuing your education, whether through formal education or job training, can be a great way to get back on your feet after a war. The opportunities provided can help you lift yourself, gain perspective, and take back control of your life.

5. Create a New Community: Finding a new community can help you define who you are and feel safe while carving out a new way of life. Look for local support groups, clubs, and volunteering opportunities to find a network of people who understand and accept you.

6. Engage in Hobbies: Taking on hobbies and spending time doing activities you enjoy can help restore a sense of balance and normalcy in your life. Pursue creative and enjoyable activities, such as reading, writing, painting, sports, and more.

7. Take Care of Yourself: It is important to properly care for your physical and mental health. Take time to rest, exercise, and eat nutritious foods. Make time to reflect and meditate. The road to recovery from war is a long and daunting one. But by leveraging the aforementioned methods, you can begin to re-establish some sense of balance and stability in your life. It’s important to go slow and acknowledge when your emotions are too overwhelming. With a supportive network of people and self-care practices, you can pull through a war and find a brighter future.