WMHD2025: Palestinian kids need mental health support now more than ever

On World Mental Health Day (This year's theme is 'Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies'), World Vision is calling for urgent investment in the West Bank from governments, donors, and civil society to prioritise mental health in all humanitarian and development responses.

Families and children in the West Bank are facing escalating psychological distress amid increasing violence, movement restrictions, and economic hardship. World Vision's mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) interventions are proving to help children and caregivers cope with fear, loss, and uncertainty, but much more needs to be done.

Over the past two years, the deteriorating situation has profoundly affected community well-being. Families live under constant stress—struggling to meet daily needs, access education, and maintain a sense of safety.

Children face frequent school disruptions and unsafe travel conditions. Yet access to education remains a cornerstone of mental health: safe, stable learning environments provide children with a sense of normalcy, belonging, and hope. Ongoing movement restrictions, checkpoints, and school closures continue to violate this right, deepening children’s psychological distress.

“The emotional burden on children is immense. They are growing up in an environment of fear and unpredictability. We are seeing more children expressing symptoms of anxiety and depression, while caregivers themselves are overwhelmed and unable to provide the reassurance their children need,” said Omar Bandak, Project Manager at World Vision.

Parents report increasing anxiety and hopelessness about the future, while children exhibit signs of trauma, including sleep difficulties, fear of loud noises, and social withdrawal.

Recent assessments by World Vision across the West Bank reveal a concerning rise in stress and trauma among both adults and children. Exposure to violence, economic instability, and social tension has eroded emotional resilience, leaving families increasingly uncertain about their future.

Through the project 'Enhanced Access to MHPSS Services for Vulnerable Communities in Areas C and B in the West Bank,' funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), World Vision has delivered targeted, evidence-based interventions:

• For Caregivers: Positive Discipline in Everyday Parenting, Group Problem Management Plus, Self-Help Plus, and community support groups.
• For Children: Early Adolescent Skills for Emotions (EASE) and I Support My Friends programmes.

These initiatives have produced noticeable results:

• 21% reduction in psychological distress among targeted caregivers and adolescents.
• 50% of participants previously experiencing distress report improved daily functioning.
• 41% improvement in caregivers’ coping abilities.
• 29% reduction in children’s psychological morbidity.
• 3,080 caregivers adopted positive parenting practices, strengthening family resilience.

“Beyond improving individual well-being, MHPSS interventions foster community solidarity, collective healing, and hope for the future,” said Bandak.

As mental health challenges intensify across the West Bank, MHPSS services are more critical than ever. On this World Mental Health Day, World Vision reaffirms its commitment to protecting children’s well-being.

“Every child deserves to grow up feeling safe, supported, and hopeful. Reducing violence and investing in mental health care are essential steps toward a brighter, more peaceful future for children in the West Bank,” added Bandak.