Conflict and instability take a growing toll on children’s mental health

MIDDLE EAST - 31 March 2026

Conflict and instability take a growing toll on children's mental health

Children across the Middle East are once again living through a period of heightened tension and insecurity as a new escalation of violence adds to years of instability affecting families across the region.

None of these children chose this conflict. None have control over it. Yet all are living with its consequences. Under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, every child has the right to protection, care and development - even in times of war. But as insecurity spreads, those rights are increasingly under strain.

While headlines focus on airstrikes, attacks and displacement, the impact on children's mental health and well-being can unfold more subtly over months and years, shaping how they grow and relate to the world around them.

Across Lebanon, Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, colleagues from SOS Children's Villages programmes say the war is affecting children's emotional well-being.

Anxiety and stress among children

"Many children are absorbing the fear and uncertainty around them. Even if they are not directly affected by violence, the regional situation and the stress within families can significantly impact their emotional well-being," says Ghada Hachem, National Director of SOS Children's Villages in Lebanon.

In Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, bombings have been reported close to the organization's closed Children's Village of Ksarnaba, while explosions in Beirut can be heard from the national office, she says.

Practitioners report noticeable emotional and behavioural changes in recent weeks, including increased anxiety, irritability and emotional withdrawal. Some children become easily startled by loud noises or sirens, while others experience restlessness, difficulty concentrating or sleep disturbances.

In Israel, colleagues are observing similar patterns, says Nelly Geva, National Director of SOS Children's Villages in Israel.

"The recent escalation of violence has had a significant emotional impact on many of the children and young people we work with," Ms. Geva says. "We are observing higher levels of anxiety, uncertainty, and emotional distress."

In the West Bank, Ala' Fataftah, Programme Director at the SOS Children's Village in Bethlehem, says: "Many of the children we work with already have previous experiences of loss or trauma. With the recent escalation of events, they have become more vulnerable to psychological stress and the reactivation of feelings of fear and insecurity."

"Children are showing persistent fear, difficulty concentrating, and worries about their own safety and the safety of loved ones," she says. Some children react with anger or stronger emotional responses, while others withdraw socially.

Increased risks for children without parental care

In all three countries, one theme is consistent: children are worried about losing family members and when they will be safe again. These pressures are particularly acute for children at risk of losing parental care.

"Many children talk about concerns related to their safety and the safety of people they love," says Ala' Fataftah of Palestine. "Some express fears of losing family members, being separated from their caregivers, or experiencing displacement and the destruction of homes."

Periods of crisis place additional strain on families already struggling to meet basic needs, increasing risks for children who are at risk of losing parental care, as well as those who have already lost it.

"When families are under immense economic and psychological pressure, children are often the most affected," says Ghada Hachem of Lebanon. "Strengthening families and supporting caregivers is essential to preventing separation and ensuring that children grow up in safe and nurturing environments."

Disruptions to school and daily routines can further intensify feelings of instability, particularly for those who have already experienced trauma. For children without parental care, or at risk of losing it, the erosion of stability can have long-term consequences, affecting their emotional development, sense of security and future prospects.

Maintaining stability and support

Across the Middle East, SOS Children's Villages programmes are focusing on maintaining stability and strengthening psychosocial support for children and families.

In Lebanon, children receive psychosocial support through counselling and structured activities such as art, storytelling and play.

"Our priority is to ensure children feel safe, supported, and connected. Even small moments of stability, playing with friends, speaking with a trusted caregiver, or attending activities, can make a profound difference in a child's ability to cope," says Ms. Hachem, Lebanon's national director.

In Israel, teams work to preserve daily routines and strengthen therapeutic support. Volunteers support staff in organising recreational activities, and children receive age-appropriate kits with games and materials to help them cope during periods spent in shelters.

Ala' Fataftah, in the West Bank, says: "The presence of consistent caregivers, specialized and well-trained psychologists and social workers, along with supportive relationships, plays a key role in helping children express their feelings and experience a greater sense of safety and stability compared to children who lack a stable care environment."

Family strengthening programmes also work closely with families under pressure, providing social work support, counselling and parenting guidance to reduce the risk of family separation.

A question of rights and priorities

The experiences of children in Lebanon, Israel and Palestine highlight the ongoing impact of conflict and instability on their well-being. Across all contexts, children are navigating fear, uncertainty and disruption to their daily lives, with those who have lost parental care or are at risk of losing it facing particular challenges. Yet, despite these challenges, children continue to find ways to cope when supported by trusted adults and stable routines. Maintaining stable care and support systems, access to psychosocial support and consistent daily routines remains essential to helping children cope with these pressures over time.