Following the attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, the Middle East is experiencing a serious escalation of the conflict. This situation is having a profound impact on the entire population - both Jewish and Arab – and has led to a drastic reduction of physical safety and a very high level of trauma and psychological stress. The psychological and physiological damage caused by such traumatic experiences is profound and manifests in various ways that disrupt daily life.
In light of the escalation of the situation in Syria in mid-2025, thousands of Druze people were displaced to the city of Suwayda and the surrounding regions. Many people find themselves in a precarious humanitarian situation and have little access to basic services and essential goods.
Since June 2024, we have been providing psychological support and trauma recovery services to vulnerable groups in Israel with a team and partners who speak Hebrew and Arabic.
Since late 2025, the project has also been supporting Druze communities who have fled to the city of Suwayda and the surrounding region.
1. Mental Health and Trauma Recovery
The project provides mental health and trauma recovery support to people affected by the escalations in the region. The focus is on improving mental well-being and fostering resilience.
2. Support for Vulnerable Groups
We support various vulnerable groups, including children and adolescents, minorities (such as those of Druze or Arab background), unaccompanied minors from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and communities along conflict lines.
3. Various Forms of Therapy and Support (Israel)
An MHPSS team provides targeted support through art and music therapy to those affected at a resilience center and other flexible locations in Israel. In addition, together with local partners, we offer many other MHPSS services such as psychosocial workshops, group therapy sessions, and individual counseling in three school dormitories for students and teachers.
4. Capacity-building and Aid Deliveries
The project has provided relief supplies in Syria for displaced pregnant Druze women, young mothers, and newborns. In addition, online capacity-building training is offered to Druze volunteers in Suwayda: knowledge in midwifery topics as well as in the field of MHPSS.
Increased ability of vulnerable groups to cope with trauma and stress.
Greater resilience through increased emotional regulation and coping skills.
Strengthened community cohesion and a sense of belonging.
Improved ability of staff members in educational institutions to support students effectively through counselling and group therapy sessions.
