The trauma symptoms were clear: frequent nightmares, aggressive behavior and nervousness. As part of Zakat Foundation’s mental health programs in Gaza in partnership with PCRF, Marah was enrolled in a program for children suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder where she received mind and body sessions in addition to recreational and educational activities.
We also enrolled Marah in psychological group therapy which she participated in consistently.
Today Marah is 14 years old, and the change in her behavior and living conditions are obvious.
“Before, she would stay at home for long periods of time and avoid going outside. Now, she enjoys playing outside with her peers,” Marah’s mom tells us. “Every time we go to the sea, Marah recounts stories from the mental health program and her group therapy sessions.”
Marah’s home, previously destroyed by heavy bombing, has been reconstructed by Zakat Foundation’s Rebuild Gaza campaign, and her performance at school has greatly improved. Marah excitedly showed us her most recent grade certificate — an impressive 95.6%.
“I enjoyed my days in the program; we played, danced dabka and met new children that have the same problem, and we participated in mind-body sessions like drawing, relaxation, body scanning and meditation,” Marah tells us. “These sessions were very helpful. I learned healthy breathing, how to express my feelings and how to overcome my anger.