The recent terrorist attacks on civilians in Israel that started on October 7th, 2023, have shocked and appalled our society. As an international professional society concerned with the mental health of those affected by trauma, ESTSS condemns all acts of violence and abuse against humanity.
Our sympathy and solidarity are with the numerous people who lost their lives, lost loved ones and suffered atrocities directly and indirectly in the ongoing conflict. This includes the professionals in our field, involved in crisis relief and mental health support. ESTSS also stands by our affiliate society, the Israeli Society for Traumatic Stress Research (ISTSR), in offering practical support, information, connection, expertise and guidance to our colleagues.
The effects of collective trauma on individuals, families, groups and societies are detrimental, long-lasting and intergenerational. The recent escalation of violence in Israel and the Gaza region affects people who have already endured much hardship for generations. As part of the global mental health community, ESTSS is dedicated to support colleagues to perform their work in mental health relief. On estss.org please find materials that can help professionals and non-professionals how to lend effective support in the immediate and longer term after a humanitarian crisis.
ESTSS has provided an international professional home and community for thirty years, with vast knowledge on the consequences of human adversities. We appeal to all of our members to provide support through knowledge, information and guidance for the survivors and colleagues dealing with the consequences of the violence.
Dr. Joanne Mouthaan
President of the European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies
