Jammu: The ongoing conflict in Jammu and Kashmir has left deep psychological scars on its residents, as persistent violence and military actions continue to instill fear and anxiety among the populace. Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD are rampant, yet support systems remain woefully inadequate, forcing many to suffer in silence.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, a Global Health Survey has estimated that 45% of individuals in the region suffer from mental distress, with 26% experiencing anxiety and 19% suffering from PTSD. The constant threat and reality of military actions contribute to this ongoing mental health crisis, instilling a pervasive sense of hopelessness and trauma among the local population.

The impact of this environment is particularly pronounced among the youth, who witness violence and bloodshed from an early age. This exposure not only affects their mental well-being but also diminishes their confidence and hopes for the future. The ongoing trauma shapes a generation whose lives are marred by fear, affecting the overall prospects for peace and stability in the region.

Despite the grim circumstances, the people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to show remarkable resilience, enduring their ordeal with quiet strength. However, the lack of adequate mental health support and the unrelenting atmosphere of fear pose serious challenges to their mental and emotional recovery.

The situation underscores the urgent need for increased mental health resources and interventions to help the people of Jammu and Kashmir cope with the profound psychological impacts of living in a conflict zone. Without such support, the enduring trauma threatens to shape the region’s future in deeply troubling ways.