BEIRUT: Medecins Sans Frontieres in Lebanon has warned of a growing mental health crisis as a result of mass displacement in the south.
The organization highlighted “worsening psychological and financial burdens caused by displacement, loss of property and continued insecurity.”
It has launched two mental health helplines in response.
“Two mental health helplines were launched on Friday, aiming to provide necessary and free psychological support to communities suffering from psychological stress as a result of the conflict, including psychological first aid, consultations, and support with referrals to nearby facilities for the displaced and conflict-affected communities,” MSF said.
More than 113,000 people have been displaced from Lebanon’s southern border since violence broke out on Oct. 8 last year.
Most remain in the south, living with relatives, in rented houses or in the homes of expatriates who have opened their doors, with fewer than 5,000 living in shelters.
Dr. Luna Hammad, MSF medical coordinator in Lebanon, said: “Mental health is often overlooked in times of crisis, but it is as important as physical health.
BACKGROUND
More than 113,000 people have been displaced from Lebanon’s southern border since violence broke out on Oct. 8 last year.
“The stress, fear and uncertainty experienced by the population in Lebanon can have a major impact on their mental health. Neglecting these needs can lead to long-term consequences that affect individuals, families and communities.”
Amid the escalation between Hezbollah and Israel in southern Lebanon, MSF said it has launched a mobile medical team to support healthcare centers and shelters in the south.
“The team has provided continuous healthcare to 1,357 patients, including follow-up treatment for chronic diseases and consultations for displaced people, as well as health awareness sessions and psychological first aid,” the organization added.
“MSF carried out training sessions for health workers and deposited up to 10 tonnes of medical supplies and equipment in hospitals across the country.”
Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed 39 health workers and closed six primary healthcare centers.
Friday saw new destruction across southern Lebanon, with Israel carrying out a series of strikes.
Footage showed two Israeli airstrikes carried out in the morning on a residential building in Mays Al-Jabal, which was destroyed near other razed structures.
The number of airstrikes on the largest town in the border region totals 126 since October last year, its mayor, Abdel Moneim Shuqair, said.
He added: “More than 1,850 shells of various sizes, including 750 internationally banned white phosphorus bombs, have fallen on the town and its surroundings since the beginning of hostilities between Hezbollah and the Israeli army 11 months ago, up until today.”
The situation is similar in the border town of Aitaroun, where Israel is employing a scorched earth policy.
Aitaroun Mayor Salim Mrad told Arab News: “Aitaroun, like the towns of Aita Al-Shaab and Kfarkela, is subject to daily Israeli assaults.
“The damage here has exceeded that of the 2006 war.
“These are border towns with high population densities, and the residents are known for distinctive vitality and live off agriculture.
“The town has 2,000 residential units, and it can be said that more than 100 houses in Aitaroun have been destroyed, and about 800 houses have been partially destroyed.
“The town’s economy has come to a halt, and the death toll has reached 16, including civilians.”
Israeli jets on Friday carried out an airstrike on a home in the town of Dhayra in the western sector, while Israeli artillery targeted the town of Kfarkela. An Israeli airstrike also targeted a house on the outskirts of the town of Beit Lif.
Artillery shelling with phosphorus bombs in the area between Tal Nahas and Hamames toward the Marjayoun plain caused fires to break out.
Also on Friday, Hezbollah announced a series of operations against Israeli military sites, targeting surveillance equipment and buildings in Metula, a statement said.
Israeli media reported “extensive damage to a building in the Metula settlement after a large fire broke out following the launch of an anti-tank missile from Lebanon.”
The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation said: “Three anti-tank missiles were launched from Lebanon toward Metula opposite the border, hitting several buildings without causing any injuries.”
Hezbollah also targeted the Ruwaiset Al-Qarn site and the Zebdine barracks with rockets. Both sites are in the disputed Shebaa Farms area.
The group also used an assault drone to strike the Ma’ayan Baruch kibbutz near the Lebanese border.
The Israeli army announced that on Thursday evening it struck Hezbollah military facilities “in Aita Al-Shaab and Yarine, and attacked Hezbollah targets in the Blida area.”
