No one in this world wants their country to be at war. The thought is scary enough let alone going through the whole experience. War does not only claim innocent lives but it has a horrifying and long-lasting effect on the mental well-being and health of individuals. Studies conducted have proven that war and traumatic situations are actually worse than normal diseases as the effects are long-term and on the whole family. History shows that during wars, doctors not only tended to wounds and injuries but had to treat outbreaks of other diseases as well.
People witnessing the war and present in affected areas suffer from stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness as well as insomnia, digestive problems, and back and stomach aches. Even soldiers fighting in the war suffer from combat stress and have been reported to have an increased risk for cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and nervous diseases. The war does not just directly affect individuals but there are other ways it can bring suffering. This includes loss of jobs, financial struggles, lack of food, and death of loved ones.
The war in Ukraine carried out by Russia is a present-day example of how people have been displaced from their homes and suffering. It is important to pay special attention to the war victims and refugees from Ukraine. Ukrainians should be protected from psychological war trauma and offered therapy for free. Extra care should be taken when dealing with war victims as they will continue to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression for years to come.
