The Syrian crisis inflicted profound psychological scars on the local community, resulting in widespread anxiety, depression, sleeping difficulties, PTSD, anger, and aggression among children.
Compounded by factors such as resource scarcity, past traumas, displacement stress, and unemployment in host countries, parents and teachers grapple with their own emotional turmoil, leaving children even more susceptible.
In the midst of this crisis, where the shadows of conflict loomed large, hope emerged in the form of stress- and trauma-relief programs tailored specifically for war-affected children, youth, and caregivers.
These programs, initiated by the International Association of Human Values (IAHV), a sister organization of The Art of Living, have catalyzed profound transformations within communities grappling with the aftermath of the civil war.
IAHV’s Unique Trauma-Relief Model
In response to the dire psychological impact of the Syrian crisis on children, youth, and caregivers, IAHV first started pilot stress- and trauma-relief training programs. These programs, tailored to address the specific needs of war-affected communities, yielded immediate and tangible benefits. Participants expressed profound transformations, with one individual remarking, “It is as if a wave of positivity has entered my life.”
Recognizing the efficacy of such interventions, the IAHV started a program called the Healing, Resilience, and Preventing Extremism project – a project helping the refugee and host communities in Lebanon and Jordan
Through a holistic approach that transcends cognitive interventions, IAHV promotes healing at multiple levels of human existence. This distinctive approach, centered on breathing techniques, reconfigures emotional patterns without the need for psychotherapists or psychologists.
Such a comprehensive strategy stands in stark contrast to traditional psychosocial methods, underscoring the effectiveness of IAHV’s initiatives in addressing collective psychosocial issues.
The Efficacy of IAHV’s Approach
Commencing in December 2016, the three-year-old project initially aimed to reach out to more than 16,000 children and youth, over 3,000 parents/community members, and over 300 caregivers in Lebanon and Jordan.
As of today, the team has provided stress relief training to over 13,945 children, 2,219 parents, and 444 caregivers.
“I always used to have nightmares about the bad things that happened to me in the past. I would relive them in my dreams. Now, I am not scared to sleep anymore. The breathing techniques let me sleep without having nightmares, and I wake up rested.”
Irbid, Program Participant
Nearly all participants have reported a significant decrease in depression levels, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and anxiety levels, along with an improvement in the quality of sleep. Dr. Katrien Hertog, the director of IAHV, offers further insights into the project’s journey.
Tailored Programs for Diverse Needs
IAHV’s programs cater to the diverse needs of different target groups, ensuring tailored interventions to address specific challenges.
For more vulnerable children, who are at risk of self-harm, and violent behavior, there is customized training in human values, trauma-relief, and nonviolent empowerment.
The program has in-depth training in human values and nonviolent empowerment for vulnerable youth, each initiative is meticulously crafted to empower participants.
Moreover, workshops aimed at enhancing the capacity of parents and caregivers to provide psychosocial support contribute significantly to community well-being.
Concurrently, the training of youth as peace ambassadors amplifies the impact of these endeavors, fostering positive change in schools, homes, and communities.
Encouraging Results and Statistical Insights
The impact of IAHV’s programs is underscored by encouraging testimonials and statistical data. Stories abound of erstwhile adversaries forging friendships and communities embracing peace.
Statistical evaluations, using the Hopkins checklist for anxiety and depression, reveal substantial reductions in key metrics. Following program participation, vulnerable youth and children experience significant decreases in anxiety levels (25.2%), depression levels (25.46%), PTSD levels (36%), sleeping problems (40%), and feelings of hopelessness about the future (44%).
“IAHV programs have had a huge impact in Menshieh – on personal lives, and at work, home, and the community as a whole. You have changed the mentality of this community. It has created brotherhood among the communities here. The violence among the children has reduced. They smile more and are more relaxed and motivated. The local community has come together because of the project. Syrians started to come to our community center.”
Mayor of Menshieh
Such tangible outcomes underscore the effectiveness of IAHV’s interventions in alleviating the psychological burdens of war.
Special Training Programs to Create Youth Peace Ambassadors
The Youth Anti-Violence and Peace Ambassadors (YAVAP) program exemplifies IAHV’s commitment to nurturing agents of peace among the youth. Graduates of this initiative spearhead transformative projects, fostering social cohesion and community resilience.
One young group of boys in Menshieh, Jordan has started organizing peaceful football matches, with mixed teams, to create social cohesion between Jordanian and Syrian youth.
A group of girls in Zarqa, Jordan has helped reduce violence and bullying through workshops and community service initiatives.
Another group of girls, in Mensheih, organized music and art classes, where refugee children can occupy their time constructively, and avoid isolation and violent tendencies.
“ I felt like we entered a ‘Room of Peace’ when we entered the training. You release all the bad energy, and return happily to your house when you finish the training.”
Zarqa, Peace Ambassador, Zarqa
Their stories exemplify the transformative potential of youth engagement in peace-building initiatives.
Dedicated Team, Lasting Impact
Central to the success of IAHV’s endeavors is the unwavering dedication of its team members, driven by a shared commitment to the cause. Their selfless efforts have garnered recognition from community leaders and diplomats alike, underscoring the transformative impact of IAHV’s initiatives.
“Our team has been working with selfless commitment. No one on our team is working for a salary, as each person is doing this work because they believe in the cause. Our team has been visiting different embassies in Jordan and Lebanon” says Dr. Katrien Hertog.
As the Syrian conflict continues to inflict trauma upon thousands of children, The Art of Living’s initiatives like “Healing, Resilience, and Preventing Extremism” assume paramount importance. IAHV extends an invitation to corporations, institutions, and individuals to join hands in this noble cause.
