IRC Calls for Sustained Mental Health Support as Psychological Toll on Lebanese Children and Caregivers Persists

BEIRUT, Lebanon — Children and caregivers across Lebanon continue to experience severe psychological impacts from conflict and displacement, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) announced on October 10, 2026, marking World Mental Health Day. According to the organization, an estimated 770,000 children in Lebanon have experienced psychological distress over the past six months.

Analysis and interviews conducted by the IRC with mothers of children aged 0 to 8 residing in collective shelters, rented apartments, and relatives' homes revealed persistent patterns of fear and insecurity. Caregivers reported that children frequently exhibit fear of loud noises and drones, cling to adults, have difficulty sleeping in the dark, and worry about being displaced again.

"Children do not simply leave the conflict behind when they leave a shelter or return home, the psychological consequences last much longer," said Benoit Delsarte, IRC country director in Lebanon. He noted that supporting caregivers' mental health is a direct way to assist young children in regaining a sense of safety and recovery.

The IRC noted that caregivers are also experiencing high levels of stress driven by repeated displacement, economic challenges, and isolation, often while attempting to conceal their distress to protect their children.

The organization stated that Lebanon's mental health infrastructure was already under significant strain before recent escalations. It is estimated that half of the country's population has screened positive for depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder, with only about 70 psychiatrists remaining in the country. Lebanon's National Mental Health Program anticipates a substantial increase in demand for services as individuals begin to process grief and trauma.

To address these needs, the IRC works with partners, including the Ministry of Public Health’s National Mental Health Program, supporting initiatives such as the national suicide prevention and psychological support line, the Step-by-Step app, Self-Help Plus podcasts, and mobile crisis teams. The organization also integrates mental health care into primary health care centers and mobile medical clinics.

Between March and July 2026, the IRC and its partners provided mental health and psychosocial support to more than 12,000 individuals. Emphasizing that mental health remains among the most underfunded sectors in humanitarian aid, the IRC called for continued international donor investment to maintain support during both the emergency and recovery phases.

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