WHO: Over a million Palestinians in Gaza require urgent mental health support

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that a mental health crisis is unfolding in Gaza, with over one million people now requiring urgent support and services falling far short of demand.

"Since Oct 2023, WHO has trained over 1,000 health workers in psychological first aid, trauma and grief management, child and adolescent mental health, and care for survivors of gender-based violence," the agency said in a post on X.

"As WHO scales up efforts to address urgent needs and rebuild the health system, expanding mental health services across all levels of care - from community to hospital - will be a central part of the response," it added.

"Lasting peace is essential to sustain any progress in improving health care, including mental health services. A permanent ceasefire must be secured."

While the #ceasefire brings long-awaited hope, the mental health impact of two years of conflict in #Gaza will endure for years and for some, a lifetime.

Mental health needs in Gaza have more than doubled, with over one million people now requiring urgent support, yet available… pic.twitter.com/WmnDWcySlC

— WHO in occupied Palestinian territory (@WHOoPt) October 12, 2025