In Gaza, the consequences of war are destroying not only buildings but also the psyches of children. According to recent reports, many children in the region are losing their ability to speak. Al Jazeera reported on the matter.
An example is five-year-old Jad Zohud, who suddenly stopped speaking after a powerful explosion occurred near his home. Experts note that such cases are becoming increasingly common.
According to doctors, while the loss of speech in some children is caused by physical injuries—such as traumatic brain injuries or blast waves—in others, it is the result of severe psychological trauma. This means a child can "sink into silence" even without any external physical injuries.
Katrin Brubakk, a psychotherapist who has worked with Doctors Without Borders (MSF), describes this condition as "silent pain." According to her, when a child experiences intense fear and danger, the body enters a "freeze" state as a defense mechanism, and speech functions are temporarily blocked.
Doctors in Gaza City also confirm that this problem is expanding. Specialist Musa al-Khorti noted an increase in cases of selective mutism or hysterical aphonia among children. This is explained by the inability to produce sound due to stress.
One such case was observed with four-year-old Lucine Tambura. After falling from a high floor during an airstrike, she faced both physical and speech-related problems. Although her condition has partially improved, her speech has not yet fully recovered.
Experts warn that prolonged stress keeps the brain in a constant "danger mode." This negatively impacts a child's development, their ability to express emotions, and their capacity to learn.
At the same time, treatment options exist, but the process is very slow and requires great care. Psychologists are attempting to gradually bring children back to communication through various methods, including simple games and exercises.
Experts emphasize that the most critical factor is creating a safe environment. However, in the current conditions in Gaza, providing such an environment remains extremely difficult.
Read “Zamin” on Telegram!
