The Treatment and Rehabilitation Center for Victims of Torture is proud to present its annual report for the year 2024. This report highlights our achievements, ongoing projects, and the impact we have made in the lives of countless individuals. It reflects our unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive care, advocacy, and support to those in need. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners, staff, and donors who have played an essential role in our journey this year.
2024 Annual Report
The Treatment and Rehabilitation Center for Victims of Torture (TRC) has witnessed a significant increase in demand for mental health services due to widespread trauma stemming from the war on Gaza and violent incidents in the West Bank and Jerusalem. TRC expresses deep concern over the rising number of individuals affected by trauma caused by extensive Israeli violations throughout 2024. A total of 6,254 beneficiaries accessed TRC services, including 1,316 men, 2,358 women, 1,348 girls, and 1,232 boys.
Key Highlights
1. Increase in Trauma-Affected Cases
TRC data shows a more than 353% increase in cases receiving rehabilitation and psychosocial intervention services compared to 2022:
2022: 1,754 beneficiaries
2023: 3,610 beneficiaries
2024: 6,254 beneficiaries
2. Most Affected Groups
Children: The number of child beneficiaries rose from 948 in 2022 to 2,108 in 2023, and to 2,580 in 2024, marking an increase of over 270% compared to pre-war figures.
Women: Women beneficiaries increased from 943 in 2022 to 2,094 in 2023, and further to 3,706 in 2024.
3. TRC Responses
Hotline Service: Over 1,700 individuals accessed the free hotline, 94% from Gaza.
Mobile Clinics: Psychosocial mobile clinics were activated across all governorates in the West Bank and Gaza.
4. Trauma from Shocking Events
28% of cases (1,776 individuals) reported trauma from witnessing or hearing about shocking events, particularly the genocide in Gaza.
5. Medical and Psychological Assessments
Among the 6,254 beneficiaries, 25% (1,550 individuals) required in-depth psychosocial therapy and, in some cases, psychiatric medication under professional supervision.
6. Trauma Impact on Families
Psychological trauma often affected entire families. Some families sought collective assistance due to a shared sense of insecurity and inability to overcome symptoms. 312 beneficiaries received family interventions.
7. Common Disorders
Stress Disorders: Affected 87% of cases, with symptoms including intrusive thoughts, sleep disturbances, avoidance behaviors, and social isolation.
Mood Disorders: Ranked second, with symptoms such as depression, hopelessness, isolation, and loss of interest.
8. Multiple Trauma Sources
60% of beneficiaries experienced more than one trauma source, such as the loss of a loved one, the arrest of a family member, or home demolitions.
9. Beneficiaries in Gaza
33.1% (2,067 individuals) of beneficiaries were from Gaza, receiving psychological support through mental health teams and the hotline.
10. Beneficiaries in the West Bank
The most affected areas were:
Jerusalem: 1,839 cases
Hebron: 641 cases
Jenin: 559 cases
Nablus: 306 cases
Tubas: 282 cases
11. Case Management
1,302 individuals received individual therapy.
312 families underwent family therapy.
1,665 individuals participated in group therapy.
2,975 beneficiaries received psychological first aid.
12. Impact of Torture
The proportion of individuals requiring in-depth interventions due to torture rose from 32% to 83%.
13. Therapy Sessions
16,000 therapy sessions were conducted, averaging 7 sessions per case.
Recommendations
Comprehensive National Plan:
The dire state of mental health requires a coordinated, long-term response, especially with the continuation of war and violations.
Prioritize Mental Health:
Mental health should be a cornerstone of humanitarian efforts, with adequate resources provided to victims.
Collaborative Efforts:
Stakeholders must coordinate to develop a national intervention plan across all governorates.
The data highlights how psychological trauma pervades all aspects of life, necessitating comprehensive and sustainable responses.
