Mental Health conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are caused by highly stressful, frightening or distressing events. Someone with PTSD often relives the traumatic event through nightmares, flashbacks and may even experience feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt.
A person may also have problems sleeping and find concentrating difficult. These symptoms are often severe and persistent enough to have a significant impact on the person's day-to-day life. PTSD can develop immediately after a traumatic event, or it can occur weeks, months or even years later.
The psychological and emotional scars of war in Iraq are immense, with thousands of people needing mental health assistance. Among those in desperate need of care, are people suffering PTSD, depression, schizophrenia and severe anxiety.
Suicide is also claiming people's lives. One of the causes of suicide in Iraq is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, from past and present conflicts in the country. Some people also try to numb the pain of PTSD, through the use of illegal drugs and substances.
In 2014, thousands of women and children from religious minorities in northern Iraq were captured by ISIS. Since the military defeat of the group, some of these people have returned, while others remain missing. They have been left traumatized by their experiences but face a host of challenges in accessing effective treatment and rehabilitation.
The psychological well-being of men, women and children across Iraq is our concern. This is why we support the ongoing work of Mental Health organisations who specialise in trauma. We also welcome the opportunity to talk with you about our support and our work for mental health care in Iraq.
The charities we support are
If you're in the UK and have been impacted by the situation in Iraq please contact
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