War, oppression and fear: In Iran, traumas are accumulating

War, oppression and fear: In Iran, traumas are accumulating

Iranians are grappling with a relentless cycle of violence, political control, and pervasive anxiety. The country’s ongoing struggles have left many in a state of constant psychological strain, with trauma compounding over time. Recent military actions by Israel and the U.S. have intensified this atmosphere, targeting cities and regions across the nation. Just prior to these conflicts, citizens had protested against the regime’s strict policies, but the government responded with harsh measures that silenced dissent.

The Islamic Republic enforces rigid rules on daily life, dictating everything from public dress codes to personal freedoms. Minor infractions, such as a woman’s choice of clothing, can lead to severe consequences. Meanwhile, economic hardships persist due to international sanctions, further straining families and communities. Psychologists warn that such enduring stress takes a significant toll on mental well-being.

Mental Health Impacts

Dr. Dana Churbaji, a researcher at Germany’s University of Münster, explains how chronic exposure to violence affects individuals. “People who face persistent threats are more prone to conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression,” she says. This stress alters how individuals perceive safety and their own lives, making them more sensitive to everyday challenges.

“When basic needs like food or electricity are unstable, conflicts in personal relationships can quickly turn violent,” Churbaji adds. She highlights that strong social bonds act as a buffer against trauma, while isolation increases vulnerability. “Those without supportive networks are at greater risk of developing long-term psychological issues.”

Physical Manifestations of Psychological Strain

Churbaji notes that stress often reveals itself in physical symptoms, such as migraines, back pain, or chronic fatigue, especially in environments where open discussion of mental health is discouraged. These signs reflect the body’s response to prolonged uncertainty, whether from power outages, food shortages, or the fear of losing digital communication.

The difference between a single traumatic event and sustained exposure to conflict is critical. While a car crash may cause temporary distress, the relentless nature of war and political persecution in Iran has a deeper psychological effect. “Repetitive trauma, like ongoing suppression of protests, creates a more severe and lasting impact,” says Rita Rosner, a clinical psychologist at the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt.

“Iranians have lived through decades of this,” Rosner explains. “The continuous fight-or-flight response can be more exhausting than a single, acute crisis. It shapes how people view their future and their place in society.”

Those experiencing PTSD often exhibit symptoms like avoiding reminders of the past, reacting strongly to triggers, or reliving traumatic memories through flashbacks. Survivor’s guilt and difficulty focusing are also common. In the absence of emotional support, these symptoms become more pronounced, compounding the challenges of rebuilding life after conflict. As the situation evolves, the cumulative weight of trauma grows, shaping the nation’s collective resilience.