50. Mental health needs in Palestine.
Mental health services are among the most under-resourced areas of health provision. around a third of Palestinians are in need of mental health interventions. Mental disorders are often a source of fear.
According to recent research in the Gaza Strip, some 32.7% of children suffer from severe levels of post-traumatic stress disorder, 49% moderate levels and 16% low levels.
To meet the growing mental health needs of the Palestinian population, a comprehensive mental health plan involving all relevant community institutions is crucial.
A first step would be to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare.
Second, health professionals working in primary care and social welfare services should receive training in mental health issues
Third, the existing community mental health services should be strengthened, and their initiatives supported.
Finally, there is a need for political action to ease the environmental factors that contribute to mental problems by pressing politicians to resume peace talks and end the occupation.