Lebanon's Lingering Trauma: Shopkeepers and Citizens Battle Psychological Scars

Alaa Fakih, a shopkeeper in Lebanon, struggles with deep-seated fears stemming from the country's turbulent history, including the civil war, the devastating Beirut explosion, and ongoing economic collapse. Many Lebanese are similarly reeling under psychological distress, coping through various mechanisms, amidst ongoing political and sectarian tensions.

Alaa Fakih, a shopkeeper in Lebanon, lies awake at night tormented by fears of another catastrophe. Like many, he is haunted by the country's violent past, including the civil war (1975-1990), the Beirut port explosion in 2020, and the enduring economic downturn.

"I find myself gripped by thoughts of how to ensure my daughter's education and fearing potential explosions," Fakih, 33, explained. This unrelenting anxiety has also fueled fears of escalating conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.

Decades of political corruption culminated in the 2019 financial collapse, eroding savings and deepening poverty. In 2020, Beirut was shattered by a chemicals explosion, killing over 220 people. The aftermath saw political obstruction in pursuing justice. Lebanese citizens continue to navigate these turbulent waters, often resorting to coping mechanisms to manage their trauma.

(With inputs from agencies.)