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Essay / Mental Health Case Study - 1864
IntroductionMental health is created by our interactions with people and events in the world around us. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to his or her community” (WHO, 2001). One of the most traumatic events that individuals can face in their lives is war and conflict. These are dangerous crises and disasters faced by nations and people in general, and include extremely aggressive events in the form of violence, economic failure, social unrest and high mortality rates (Samia & Shaheen, 2013). People located in an area exposed to war and conflict suffer adverse consequences on their health, economy and social decline. Among the complications of wars and conflicts, the impacts on the mental health of the general population are the most significant. Studies demonstrate a marked increase in the incidence and prevalence of mental disabilities among people exposed to war and conflict (Srinivasa & Rashmi, 2006). Psychological complications are well reported and are generally persistent. The main manifestations include depression, anxiety, irritability, emotional instability, social instability, cognitive impairment, and behavioral disturbances (Srinivasa & Rashmi, 2006). The importance that WHO places on managing the psychological trauma of war was demonstrated by the World Health Assembly resolution in May 2005, which urged Member States "to strengthen action to protect children in and against armed conflict” and the WHO Executive Board resolution...... middle of document ...... them with their basic needs, social support and good screening. In addition, it is important to develop rehabilitation programs with highly qualified professionals to offer the population good coping strategies and re-engagement in society. Additionally, the media should play an important role during and after the war by developing programs that help people adapt and return to their own lives. A number of questions have emerged from the literature about the prevalence and pattern of mental health effects of war and mental health. conflict. Further studies on the effect on the mental health status of different population groups, such as physically disabled people, already mentally ill patients and people with chronic illnesses, are recommended. Acknowledgments This article is supported by Alfarabi College for Dentistry and Nursing in Alryiadh, Saudi Arabia.