Ongoing Peer Support and Empowerment for Amputee Youth in Northern Gaza
Ongoing Peer Support and Empowerment for Amputee Youth in Northern Gaza

In the northern Gaza region, the PCRF mental health team held peer sessions to support amputee youth, fostering their physical and mental well-being. Peer support sessions play a central role, helping to instill crucial concepts of self-care and positive daily routines. A pivotal moment in their journey came when they participated in Al Qudra Camp, also known as "Camp Ability for Amputees." Beyond physical rehabilitation, this camp served as a comprehensive assessment of their psychological well-being. Following the camp, a holistic approach was adopted to empower and uplift these youth, helping them confront life's challenges with newfound resilience and a positive outlook. Our mental health specialists were instrumental in this transformation, offering individual and group sessions for the youth and their caregivers. Families also received tools and techniques to address the psychological and social pressures they faced, especially as a new school year commenced. The youth were taught self-care techniques, including the progressive muscle relaxation method. These sessions not only equipped them with valuable skills but also created a sense of unity among participants. The interactive nature of these gatherings allowed them to express their profound need for such support, finding solace and strength in the skills they acquired and the positive interactions within the group. This collective effort, blending physical rehabilitation, psychological support, and skill-building, has given rise to a community of resilient amputee youth who not only thrive but also inspire others with their determination and positive outlook on life.