In recent years, the plight of children in Syria has become a heartbreaking focal point of global attention. Millions have fled the country, escaping the brutality of war, while countless others remain trapped in zones of conflict. The images and stories that emerge from this crisis are utterly harrowing, yet the enormity of the devastation often feels overwhelming.
As a physician deeply concerned about the mental health of these children, it’s challenging to fully grasp the extent of their suffering. The trauma they endure is staggering, making it difficult to fathom the fear and desperation they experience daily. The severity of their experiences has led a neuropsychologist, Dr. Sarah Al-Mansour, who works with the Syrian Medical Support Foundation, to introduce a new term: human devastation syndrome.
Dr. Al-Mansour explained to ATTN: that the level of trauma observed in these children surpasses even what soldiers encounter in war. “They have witnessed the disintegration of their families, with many losing parents and siblings,” she stated. “Many of them arrive at refugee camps with severe physical injuries, including amputations and other debilitating conditions.”
The Syrian Medical Support Foundation, founded by a network of dedicated healthcare professionals, aims to provide medical assistance in conflict zones and refugee settings across neighboring countries. Unfortunately, the ongoing civil war, which erupted following protests against President Bashar al-Assad in 2011, has resulted in a humanitarian catastrophe. With approximately 4.9 million Syrians currently displaced and around 6.1 million internally uprooted, half of those affected are children.
Adding to the despair, hospitals frequently come under attack. Dr. Al-Mansour emphasized that nearly every medical facility supported by her organization has faced bombardment, primarily from airstrikes. This hostile environment complicates efforts to provide vital medical care, as those working in these areas may be mistakenly viewed as allies of the regime.
Given this dire situation, it is profoundly troubling that current policies aim to indefinitely restrict the entry of Syrian refugees into the United States. Earlier this year, an executive order suspended the U.S. refugee program for 120 days and barred Syrian refugees indefinitely. While a federal court deemed this order unconstitutional, there are indications that similar restrictions may be reintroduced.
Irrespective of one’s political stance, supporting the ban on Syrian refugees seems morally indefensible. These individuals are seeking refuge from unimaginable horror and are subject to an extensive vetting process before being allowed into the U.S. This includes multiple screenings, medical evaluations, and cultural orientation sessions.
Contrary to the fear propagated by some, Syrian refugees are predominantly women and children, with any men typically accompanied by their families. Since the onset of the crisis, nearly 3,000 Syrian refugees have been admitted to the U.S., none of whom have been implicated in terrorism-related offenses.
How can one deny safety to those in desperate need? How can we turn away innocent children, who have done nothing wrong but be born into a war-torn nation? It is crucial to remember that this crisis could easily affect any of us. We must not remain passive while these children endure unimaginable suffering.
For those who wish to take action, there are numerous ways to assist those affected by this tragedy. If you’re interested in learning more about pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from the CDC or read about artificial insemination kits at Make a Mom. You can also learn more about our terms and conditions here.
Summary
The severe trauma faced by Syrian children has led to the recognition of a new psychological condition known as human devastation syndrome. As millions flee conflict and violence, the need for support and understanding is more critical than ever. Despite political opposition, we must not turn away from helping those in need, including innocent families seeking refuge.