Kids in Azerbaijan: The War's Hidden Wounds

In Azerbaijan, the Second Karabakh War left deep marks on the minds of many young people. From 2020 to 2023, researchers tracked the mental health of over 2, 400 kids and teens aged 5 to 16. They found that a huge number of them struggled with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The numbers were shocking: 65% had anxiety, 40% dealt with depression, and a whopping 70% showed signs of PTSD. Teens aged 12 to 14 were hit the hardest, especially with depression. Half of them were struggling with it. Girls also felt more anxious than boys, with 70% of girls showing anxiety compared to 60% of boys. But here's some good news: psychological support, like art therapy and group sessions, really helped. Anxiety and depression levels dropped significantly after these interventions. This study was a big deal because it was the first of its kind in Azerbaijan. It showed just how important long-term mental health support is for kids and teens after a war. The findings highlight the need for more efforts to help young people heal and move forward.