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What are the long-term psychological effects of genocide on survivors?

Dixie Rothman

Hey there,

That's a really important question that deserves our attention as we think about the ongoing impact of genocide on survivors. While the short-term physical effects of genocide like death, injury, and displacement are perhaps easier to see, the long-term psychological effects can be just as devastating.

One of the most common long-term psychological effects of genocide on survivors is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, and ongoing hyperarousal long after the traumatic event has ended. This can make it difficult for survivors to feel safe, trust others, and feel hopeful about the future.

Another psychological effect of genocide on survivors is depression. Survivors may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and helplessness as they struggle to come to terms with the trauma they have experienced. In some cases, this depression can lead survivors to self-harm or even suicide.

Survivors of genocide may also experience survivor guilt. This is the feeling that they somehow survived while others did not, and may feel that they should have done more to help others. This can lead survivors to feel disconnected from others and can make it more difficult for them to build relationships.

Finally, survivors of genocide may experience a loss of cultural identity. This is particularly true for survivors who have been displaced from their homes and communities and have had to adapt to new cultural norms and expectations. This loss of cultural identity can be devastating to survivors and may impact their ability to feel connected to their communities and families.

Overall, the long-term psychological effects of genocide on survivors can last for years or even decades after the traumatic event has ended. It's important for us to remember this as we think about how to support survivors and work towards healing and reconciliation.

Take care.