When a country faces a war-like situation, like the current tension between India and Pakistan, people of all ages often go through mental stress. Unfortunately, this is often ignored. Mental health experts say it's important to notice signs of stress early and get help before it leads to serious problems.

Many people feel helpless, anxious, or slightly depressed during such tough times. Experts warn that these feelings, even if common now, should not be ignored. Getting help from psychiatrists or mental health professionals early can stop things from getting worse.

Who is affected and how

Dr Prashant Goyal, a senior psychiatrist at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, explains that mental stress affects all age groups, but in different ways:

• Children depend on their parents for safety. They may panic more easily.
  
• Senior citizens may feel lonely and helpless, especially if they already have health problems.
  
• Young adults may worry about their studies, jobs, and future, which feels uncertain.
  

As the situation becomes more serious, it’s important for people to talk to each other, listen, and support one another. Getting help on time can stop today’s mental wounds from becoming lifelong scars.

Managing news and information

Dr Achal Bhagat, a psychiatrist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, says people should get news only from reliable sources. Too much or sensational news can increase fear. He also says we should avoid sharing unverified information, which can cause more panic.

Age-specific reactions

Dr Sameer Malhotra, head of mental health at Max Hospital, explains how different age groups are affected:

• Children may have nightmares, fear of being away from parents, wet the bed, or show aggression.
  
• Young adults may have panic attacks, feel highly stressed, use harmful substances, or have relationship problems.
  
• Older adults may become sad, anxious, or socially withdrawn.
  

Long-term impact

Dr Pavitra Shankar from Aakash Healthcare warns that conflict can have long-lasting effects:

Children may face long-term PTSD, and problems in learning, emotional growth, and communication.

Teenagers and young adults may struggle with depression and thoughts of self-harm.

Older people may experience faster mental decline, with age-related problems showing up earlier.

Support systems that can help

There are many ways to help those affected:

• Community programs for seniors offer therapy and crisis support.
  
• Schools and colleges can offer counselling for children and youth.
  
• Therapists and counsellors can work in clinics, schools, or relief camps.
  
• Group therapy helps people feel less alone and share their feelings.
  
• Peer support programs are useful, especially for children, veterans, and survivors of trauma.
  

In some places, cultural and traditional practices like community healing rituals or recreational activities for children also help people recover.

[With TOI inputs]