Psychological and Psychosomatic Care in Syria: Challenges and Opportunities
摘要
This chapter provides a concise overview and analysis of psychological and psychosomatic care in Syria, focusing on the profound challenges brought on by the prolonged conflict and the resulting strain on the health care system. Although psychological services have long been limited, the war has significantly intensified the mental health crisis, with disorders like depression and trauma frequently manifesting as physical symptoms. Despite growing efforts from local and international organizations, a formal psychosomatic framework remains absent, creating a gap in holistic care. This chapter explores the prewar state of mental health services, the far-reaching impact of the conflict, and the crucial role those emerging institutions—such as the new Faculty of Health Sciences that encompasses clinical psychology, psychomotor, and occupational therapy in Damascus—can play in addressing these issues. By proposing targeted strategies to integrate psychosomatic approaches into mental health initiatives, reduce social stigma, and expand access to care, this chapter offers essential insights for improving mental health services. These recommendations provide a foundation for future research and practice, highlighting the urgent need for a more comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach to mental health care and integration of psychosomatic curricula in Syria.