Sama Tabeel, an 8-year-old girl from Gaza, has lost almost all of her hair due to the stress of living through war. Despite still having both parents and limbs, the trauma has taken a toll on Sama’s mental and physical health. Sama’s mother, Olfat, describes how the family was repeatedly bombed while seeking refuge in a hospital, leading to Sama’s sudden hair loss. Doctors in Gaza have struggled to find a solution, with some attributing it to a psychological state caused by fear and stress. Sama has stopped playing with other children who bully her for being bald and now expresses a desire to die. Save the Children reports that the ongoing violence and blockade in Gaza have led to widespread mental health issues among children, with many experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on Sama and her family, with their home destroyed, relatives lost, and fear lingering. Sama dreams of returning to her home and hopes her hair will grow back in time for her birthday. Tabeel emphasizes the urgent need for psychological stability and support for Sama’s fragile mental state. The devastating impact of the war is evident in the struggles faced by Sama and other children in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian aid and mental health resources in the region.
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