How Colombian Multi-Generation Wars Leave Long-Term Psychological Effects On Children

Colombia had always been struck by poverty, crimes, killings and drug cartels. There has been always a war going on and the guerilla forces were always active. Columbian people had lived in terror for a very long time. People were killed and threatened. and some little kids had witnessed all that with so much going through their minds.

Just recently Columbian congress made a peace deal with left-wing Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia ( FARC). The Atlantic shared the stories of Colombian children who have lost their parents or have seen them getting threatened by the guerilla forces. Even after everything is fine and secure, the children still can't believe that they would actually be free.

Wilson Munoz, a teacher at The Antonio Garcia's School asked the children to introduce themselves on the first day. Mayerly Rodriguez said that she is happy now that she is free but still can remember the times when her father was approached by the guerilla forces and they wanted to recruit her siblings.

Experts say that war can have the deepest effect on the children's brain development. American Psychological Association says that children who remain under the effects of horrible events could become violent and have separation anxiety. The war has almost ended in Colombia but there's still a lot to be done.

In order to get people to talk and feel better about themselves, many programs have been initiated. One such program is Education Bogotá. It offers services for parents and children in terms of education, health, management and also asks for complaints and solutions to their problems.

The administration could also be reached in case of any queries. Gabriela Bucher, the county director for the charity Plan International, says that these workshops help children to express their fears and feelings through an artistic medium. By drawing and painting, little children push out what's inside their minds that bother them.

Jose Luis Campo, the country leader of the children charity Benposta, said that if these children are given proper education and care, they could achieve a better life. So, what do you think can help children ease the trauma they had experienced the multi-generation war in Colombia? Sound off below.