Gaza remains in the headlines as Palestinians struggle to live a meaningful life within the confines of Israel’s brutal and inhumane blockade.

Thanks to your support, UPA’s Healing Through Feeling team is continuing to help caregivers recognize and remedy symptoms of trauma in themselves and their children.

We recently spoke with Maged Qishawi, a mental health practitioner in UPA’s Healing Through Feeling program. Maged recounted what it’s like to work in a war-torn area and why he feels his work in the mental health sector is important.

What is it like living in an area like Gaza? What is the average day like?

Living in an environment like Gaza’s is very difficult because we live day-by-day and there is no stability. We always worry about the future because anything can happen, and the worst tends to happen.

Why is the mental health sector in Gaza often overlooked?

Most of the services offered in Gaza are relief services that aim to address basic needs and general health. Because of that, the mental health sector is often overlooked. Additionally, most people deny that they are suffering from any mental health issues. Unfortunately, many still think that only insane people go to psychologists.

Why did you decide to become a mental health practitioner?

I believe that helping others is among the most important and worthy tasks that we can carry out. I also feel that we have a responsibility toward our community to be mentally healthy, in order to keep living and dealing with our difficulties.  I have the skills to help others become mentally healthy and I enjoy performing this type of service. I see my work as not only improving individual lives but improving the community as a whole.

What challenges do you face in the field when talking to teachers or parents?

The biggest challenge is when parents and teachers request more training sessions outside of the six weeks we spend in each kindergarten.  Unfortunately, right now, we are limited in time because we must move on to other kindergartens so we can benefit every part of Gaza.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

I enjoy conducting training sessions that provide mental health support to caregivers, especially when I can feel how much they need my help.  I have seen these sessions change people for the better and when that happens, I feel very accomplished.

Donate Today to help Maged and his colleagues make an even larger impact in Gaza.