Syrian Youth, War, and Community Approach to Stigma Surrounding Psychological Intervention

Abstract

This chapter will discuss why countries that emerge from prolonged civil wars need to provide their citizens with adequate mental health services and make a reference to Syria as a case study. It will demonstrate an association between mental disorders and violence which threatens the stability, national security, and the aspired recovery of the country. The chapter will refer to young people as they are the future in process and the makers of the future change in Syria. However, rather than listing or discussing solutions, the chapter will take a community approach to stigma and discuss how a shift in the way the Syrian society views and approaches mental illness is necessary to alleviate stigma and its impact. The chapter will also show how minority groups among the Syrian youth are subject to an aggravated level of stigma. In doing so, the chapter will address various social concepts such as youth, masculinity, community, and society.