On June 13, 2024, it will be 250 days since the United Nations declared the events in Gaza a genocide. The horrors witnessed include families being buried alive, others erased from civil records, relentless attacks on hospitals, and the indiscriminate targeting of doctors, aid workers, and journalists. Children have been maimed, orphaned, and murdered. This brief description only scratches the surface of the daily atrocities in Palestine since October 7, 2023, and even earlier. The world is witnessing these horrifying attacks on Palestinians in the Occupied Territories in real time.
Dr. Sarah Almarzooqi, a consultant clinical psychologist and PTSD therapist, explores how this collective global trauma can lead to moral injury. Moral injury is a deeply personal experience where psychological and emotional distress arises from a conflict between one's morals and actions or inactions. This internal struggle can occur when one witnesses or participates in events that contradict their sense of right and wrong, or when they fail to act against perceived injustices.
The long-term psychological effects of moral injury can be profound, leading to feelings of constant guilt, shame, and grief, and difficulties in reintegrating into society. In the context of Gaza, witnessing extreme violence on social media triggers a range of emotions including hopelessness, grief, anger, betrayal, guilt, and shame. There is a pervasive sense of helplessness and despair as people witness the suffering and loss of innocent lives. Anger at the injustice can escalate into rage, prompting bold actions to voice opposition or prevent further injustice.
Moral injury can lead to crushing guilt and shame, stemming from a perceived failure to act or do enough. This guilt can spiral into mental suffering, exacerbating depression and anxiety, which, while severe, is incomparable to the experiences of Palestinians. While PTSD and moral injury are related forms of trauma, they differ significantly. PTSD is a recognized mental illness, whereas moral injury is described as a syndrome, focusing on the moral and ethical dimensions of trauma and the internal conflict it causes.
Treating moral injury involves complex, personal processes. Therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma-focused Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, and Compassion-Focused Therapy can be effective. It's crucial to reframe adverse events and focus on what one can control. Support from mental health professionals, friends, and family can also be beneficial. Reflecting on moral conflicts, acknowledging and expressing feelings, and engaging in activities that align with one's values can help. Supporting recognized humanitarian organizations and continuing to advocate for Palestine are also recommended. Lastly, practicing self-compassion is essential, as the world already has enough conflict.
