The living conditions in the Gaza Strip are dire ; the impact of this reality has detrimental effects on the population, most notably it’s children. At MSF Al Mawasi Primary Health Care Clinic (PHCC) we work on the mental health for parents and children through a range of activities and programs. We also have a psychological counselling and psychiatric department.

Mahmoud ElBelbesi (MSF psychologist) conducts the “children carnival” Mental Health support sessions for children in Al Mawasi PHCC.

The activities with children cover five topics: identity, protection, friendship, body ownership and emotions.

“One of the most important challenges we see in the Rafah area, especially for children, is that there is no safe place. This doesn't allow them from starting the process of healing that should be done as soon as possible. Without a ceasefire, it will be difficult for them to get over this situation.”
These activities provide a space for children to play safely: “It's through play that we get over the trauma, the pain, how to manage some emotions that are coming and are not easy to deal with.”
The child learns through the activities a new language to communicate, without aggression, without hitting.