For years now, the world has been witnessing the heartbreaking crisis in Syria. Millions are fleeing the country to escape the brutal realities of war, while countless individuals remain trapped in conflict zones. We’ve seen the haunting images and heard the gut-wrenching stories, but let’s be real—it’s tough to fully grasp the extent of the destruction and despair. The trauma inflicted on children in particular is unimaginable.
The severity of the psychological impact on these young victims has prompted Dr. Lila Carson, a neuropsychologist working with the Syrian-American Medical Society (SAMS), to coin a new term: human devastation syndrome. “We’ve spoken to numerous children, and their suffering surpasses what even soldiers experience in combat,” Dr. Carson shared with us. “They’ve witnessed their loved ones torn apart and have seen injuries that are beyond comprehension. Many arrive at refugee camps with severe physical impairments, including amputations.”
Dr. Carson chairs the mental health committee at SAMS, a humanitarian organization founded by Syrian-American doctors that works tirelessly to provide medical assistance to those affected by the crisis. SAMS organizes missions that send healthcare professionals into conflict-affected areas, helping to treat those in dire need both within Syria and in refugee camps across Jordan, Lebanon, and Greece.
The Background of the Crisis
For those who might not be familiar with the background, let’s break it down: In 2011, a group of schoolchildren was arrested (and reportedly tortured) for scribbling anti-government graffiti. This sparked protests, which led the government, under President Bashar al-Assad, to respond violently, killing protesters. By 2012, the situation had escalated into a full-blown civil war. Over the years, the conflict has evolved, and the rise of ISIS has only exacerbated the chaos.
Currently, around 4.9 million Syrians are refugees, with an additional 6.1 million internally displaced—half of whom are children. To make matters worse, hospitals are frequently targeted, with many SAMS-supported facilities suffering attacks, often from airstrikes carried out by the regime or allied forces.
Political Response and Humanitarian Needs
Given this grim reality, it’s inhumane that the current administration has sought to indefinitely block Syrian refugees from entering the U.S. Earlier this year, an executive order was signed that halted the entire U.S. refugee program for 120 days, specifically singling out Syrian refugees. Thankfully, a federal judge deemed this order unconstitutional, but new restrictions are expected to follow.
No matter where you stand politically, it’s hard to fathom supporting a move that keeps desperate families from seeking safety. These individuals are fleeing unspeakable horrors and deserve compassion and assistance. Before arriving in the U.S., they undergo rigorous vetting, including interviews and medical screenings, ensuring that they pose no threat. In fact, the majority of Syrian refugees admitted are women and children, and in recent years, none have been tied to terrorism.
Call to Action
So, what kind of person turns away someone in desperate need? How could anyone look at a child, who has done nothing wrong except be born into chaos, and say, “Sorry, not here”? It could easily be us in their shoes—our families, our children facing life-threatening dangers.
We can’t just stand by and watch. If you share my sentiment and want to help these innocent children, check out this other blog post for ideas on how to make a difference. For more information on how to assist, you can also visit Make a Mom, an authority on the topic of artificial insemination. And for a comprehensive understanding of the process, this Wikipedia article is an excellent resource.
In summary, the plight of Syrian children is dire, with many affected by a new psychological condition known as human devastation syndrome. It is crucial for us to extend our empathy and support to those fleeing war and seeking refuge. Let’s not turn our backs on those who need our help the most.