A psychologist at the Al-Fasher Specialized Hospital for Mental Health in Sudan’s North Darfur State has said that the ongoing war has exposed many people in the Darfur region to psychological pressures and many are suffering from depression, tension, anxiety, and poor performance to the point of causing harm to themselves and others.
Ibrahim Siddiq Ibrahim Bashir explained to Radio Tamazuj on Monday that psychological disorders threaten the lives of hundreds and the future of many children in light of the limited response from international humanitarian organizations. He said most organizations focus their activities on addressing the main effects of the conflict and ignore those suffering from psychological trauma and related conditions.
“Although thousands have fled the areas where there is fighting in Darfur, some of them need psychological support which is one of the most important services that must be provided to people affected by crises and who suffer from economic or other problems fairly and promptly,” he said.
Bashir said that there are many causes of stress including problems at individual and collective levels and that neglecting to treat those affected by trauma and disorders doubles their risk of developing chronic diseases such as depression and impulsive behaviors which can lead to a hike in suicide rates.
He revealed that the practice of psychiatry in Sudan has been facing many challenges since 2009 which has made treatment difficult for many.
“The current war has destroyed the infrastructure of psychological support centers and hospitals and led to the migration of health personnel,” Musa said. “The deterioration of the economic situation and the low level of awareness has also led to a negative societal outlook toward the mentally ill. All of these are challenges we face daily.”
He appealed to citizens to talk about what is hurting them with people they trust or to engage in activities such as sports, listening to music, reading the Qur’an, relaxation exercises, and seeking help from psychological specialists if possible to avoid depression.