Fifty per cent of GPs have seen a rise in patient distress levels related to global conflicts, a recent Healthed survey of more than 2,300 GPs found.

While over a third of respondents reported a slight increase, more than one in ten reported observing a significant increase in distress or other medical concerns they attribute to conflicts in places such as Palestine, Ukraine and Sudan.

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) says it is not just those directly impacted by war and war crimes who experience adverse effects.

“Many people will find the news and images of the conflict extremely upsetting, and for some, old traumas will be reactivated,” the APS said in a statement on the Israel-Palestine crisis, noting that it comes at a time when many Australians are already experiencing psychological strain.

Who is at increased risk?

Some people may be particularly vulnerable to distress. Those at increased risk may include current and former service men and women, people who have experienced war or displacement, and those with personal or family ties to places where conflict is occurring.

Australians with ancestral links to homelands affected by war or violence may experience “long distance suffering and devastation,” Professor Nicholas Procter explains in an article in The Conversation.

“Diaspora migrant groups should not be seen as isolated from their country of origin,” he writes. “Rather, they are subject to global influences over their personal and social life, their health and well-being.”

As such, they “can identify completely with the pain and anguish they see and hear.”

What can GPs recommend?

Apart from referring patients who are experiencing distress to mental health support services—especially those who may be at risk of being re-traumatised—the APS suggests some other strategies that can help.

These include:

• limiting media exposure, particularly if it is causing increased distress
• talking about thoughts and feelings with a trusted person, such as a friend or family member
• taking positive action, such as contributing to humanitarian aid efforts – this may help people to feel more empowered
• practising self-care strategies including taking time for rest, relaxation, exercise and social connection