Amid the explosions and the constant echo of daily news, many people endure a quiet inner struggle, with feelings of fear and anxiety concealed behind their everyday faces. In this reality, some experience disorders such as insomnia and difficulty concentrating, along with an urgent need for psychological support—often hindered by the fear of stigma. Nevertheless, seeking psychological help remains essential to maintaining mental balance and navigating daily pressures with awareness and professionalism.

According to the World Health Organization, around 25% of individuals in any community experience psychological disorders, a figure that rises with each new crisis—especially as crises accumulate. This is not limited to a specific age group, but includes children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.

Stigma continues to be a major barrier to mental health care. In an interview with Annahar, psychiatrist Dr. Sami Richa stressed the importance of seeking treatment when needed, stating: “Some people believe that asking for help is a sign of weakness or madness, so they avoid specialized care and turn to inappropriate solutions, such as unspecialized consultations or taking medication without medical supervision. By the time they reach us, their condition is more complex and more difficult to treat.”

However, stigma is gradually declining in the Arab world thanks to growing awareness efforts, such as the national program at the Lebanese Ministry of Health, in addition to initiatives in other Arab countries, including programs in psychiatry and child protection in Dubai.

• Depression: The persistence of symptoms such as sadness, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, and lack of concentration for more than two weeks, which may lead to serious negative thoughts. Treatment varies between psychological support and medical treatment depending on the severity. 

Conversely, there are protective factors that enhance mental balance, most notably family, social relationships, religious practices, and meditation, which are essential elements in coping with stress.