Takeaway
When caring for patients affected by war, provide psychological first aid, address trauma's long-term physical and mental impacts, and connect them to available community supports.
Creative arts in medicine | April 2, 2026 | 1 min read
By John Decarlo, MA, MDiv, Hofstra University
Armed with tenderness
Missiles
Of the night
Missiles
Burning so bright
Missiles
Rocking babies’ cradles
Doctors
Armed with tenderness
Doctors
Tending to healing so deep
Doctors
Watching over soothing sleep
Doctors–bravo
Your faithful oath you keep
The global healthcare sector is currently confronted by a major inflection point of a global economic slowdown; and an oil crisis has converged to threaten both financial sustainability and the quality of medical care services that can be offered.
Healthcare professionals around the world are experiencing how armed conflicts inflict profound human suffering, dismantle health systems, displace populations, and leave lasting psychological scars. Moreover, amid military escalations lies the injustices of innocent people being killed and injured. For those injured, the consequences are both immediate and long-lasting, including PTSD, depression, grief, and intergenerational trauma; this may be particularly true for children. Psychological and other health conditions loom large—including emotional and behavioral difficulties, cognitive and developmental blockages, and long-term physical health vulnerabilities. When caring for anyone affected by war, practice “psychological first aid” by supporting them through emotional distress and connecting them to available community support.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.