By Jel Santos

A survey commissioned by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) revealed that 73 percent of millennials in 15 countries consider mental health as potent as water, food and shelter for victims of wars and armed violence.

The data gathered by Ipsos from 15,000 people aged 20 to 35 indicated the growing awareness of the importance of mental health in conflict situations.

Among the 15 countries surveyed, ICRC said, the highest support for mental health among millennials came from Syria, where 87 percent of nearly 1,000 respondents said mental health needs are as salient as water, food and shelter for victims of armed conflicts. The countries that followed were Indonesia (82 percent), Ukraine (81 percent), and Switzerland (80 percent).

“Mental health services have for too long been an after-thought in conflict settings. When traumas are invisible, they can be easily overlooked or de-prioritized. Yet war has a devastating impact on the mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of millions. New mental health problems can appear, and pre-existing conditions may resurface. For some the effects will be life-threatening,” Peter Maurer, ICRC president, said in a statement.

According to ICRC, more than one out of five people in conflict-affected areas live with some form of mental health condition, from mild depression and anxiety to post-traumatic stress disorder. “That is three times more than the general population worldwide suffering from these conditions. The mental health and psycho-social needs of people caught up in conflict must be a part of the growing attention given to mental health around the world.”

Maurer stressed the importance of supporting people’s mental health as it can be lifesaving, especially in war-torn countries.

“Supporting people’s mental health can be lifesaving in times of war and violence, just as much as stemming a bleeding wound or having clean water. Hidden wounds are no less dangerous,” he said.

As countries observe World Mental Health Day on October 10, the ICRC is urging all states to prioritize mental health and psycho-social support in situations of violence and armed conflict.