The Australian Psychological Society (APS) condemns the ongoing abhorrent and unacceptable war crimes in the Israel-Gaza region and the unjust violence and damage caused to Israel and Gaza citizens.
The APS and our 27,000 members around Australia are gravely concerned about the immediate and long-term trauma and psychological impacts of this violence on people of all ages, families and communities.
War and war crimes are human rights violations and cause deep adverse effects to psychological and physical health and wellbeing.
The APS calls for an end to the violence, inclusive of a ceasefire, and sends support to those affected in Israel, Gaza and around the world. All parties should abide by international law.
Beyond the Israel-Gaza region, many people will find the news and images of the conflict extremely upsetting, and for some, old traumas will be reactivated. This crisis comes at a time when many people in Australia are already under psychological strain, and we urge anyone struggling to reach out for mental health support.
We understand that these scenes are distressing for many in our Australian communities, in particular current and former service men and women, people who have first-hand experience of war or displacement, and those who have strong family or personal ties to Israel, Palestine and/or the surrounding region. Our thoughts go out to these people and to our colleagues in the psychology community in the region.
APS President Dr Catriona Davis-McCabe has urged anyone struggling to reach out for mental health support.
“This international crisis comes at a time when many Australians are already under psychological strain.
“All of us find the news and images of the unfolding events extremely distressing, and for some, old traumas will be reactivated.
“If you are struggling, please seek help.”
For anyone experiencing distress, or being impacted by current events, the APS suggests:
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Reaching out to mental health support services – especially if you are at risk of being re-traumatised.
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Limit media exposure, particularly if it is increasing your distress.
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Talking about your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust – sharing our distress and talking about how we feel with friends, family and trusted community members can be helpful.
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For anyone feeling a sense of powerlessness, taking positive action, like contributing to humanitarian aid efforts, may help.
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Lean on the tools you have for self-care. Allow time for rest, relaxation, exercise and social connection.
This statement was updated on 12 October 2023 based on advice from expert psychologists in the APS.
For more information, or to arrange an interview call the APS Media team on 03 8662 3358 / 0435 896 444, or email. Find the APS Media team on X: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 25,000 members. The APS is committed to advancing psychology as a discipline and profession. It spreads the message that psychologists make a difference to people’s lives, through improving psychological knowledge and community wellbeing.