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INVISIBLE WOUNDS: The life-saving imperative of mental health in Gaza and lessons learned

This report, developed by The Danish Refugee Council, in partnership with the Women’s Affairs Center (Gaza) and Humanity Crew, explores the devastating mental health crisis in Gaza. It highlights the life-saving importance of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) for communities and frontline workers, drawing on field data and a DRC-led pilot project that demonstrates how tailored, context-specific care can restore dignity and resilience amid ongoing conflict.

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INVISIBLE WOUNDS: The life-saving imperative of mental health in Gaza and lessons learned 08 Oct 2025 PDF 8.4 MB

Executive summary

The crisis in Gaza has unleashed a mental health crisis of unprecedented scale. This report, co-authored by MHPSS expert Dr. Felicity Butterly and developed in collaboration with the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) Women’s Affairs Center (WAC) and Humanity Crew, examines the profound psychological suffering affecting Palestinians after years of occupation, siege, and violence.

Drawing on direct testimonies, DRC protection data, and insights from a pilot MHPSS initiative implemented with local partners, the report underscores that mental health interventions are not optional—they are life-saving. It documents the impacts of trauma on displaced communities and aid workers alike, reveals adaptive coping strategies developed under siege, and showcases how locally led, culturally grounded MHPSS programming can preserve dignity and survival.

The report concludes with actionable recommendations for humanitarian actors, donors, and policymakers to integrate MHPSS as a core element of emergency and protection responses, ensuring that psychological well-being is recognized as a fundamental aspect of civilian protection and recovery in Gaza.