A recent survey of Iraqi refugees in Syria conducted by the United Nations refugee agency, revealed every single respondent had experienced at least one traumatic event prior to leaving Iraq. One in five of the Iraqi refugees interviewed claimed to be the victims of torture or violence.

According to the report, widespread depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder were found to be seriously affecting every aspect of the refugees' lives. Marriages are being destroyed; and increasing domestic violence, stress, malnutrition, and school dropouts are among the problems being compounded by the heavy psychological burdens.

World Vision's own assessments of Iraqi refugees in Jordan have found similar results. Diagnosed but untreated trauma and broader psychological distress is common place among refugee children in particular.

A structured school environment is a proven tool in assisting children to redress the psychological burdens which many of these children carry. Yet, with limited numbers of Iraqi refugee children actually attending schools in Jordan, and with frequent reports of bullying and intimidation at public schools, children are missing out on a supportive school environment they so desperately need to regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.

In a region chronically short of trained psychiatrists and mental health professionals, support for these refugees can be hard to come by.

World Vision in Jordan continues to advocate for Iraqi refugee children, drawing the world's attention to the psychological burdens which so many are forced to carry.