Fear and Uncertainty Spread Far Beyond Conflict Zones Amid Indo-Pakistan Tensions
New Delhi, May 11 — What began as a distant headline is now a looming shadow in the lives of many Indians. As tensions escalated between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor, fear has crept into households far removed from the border, triggering a wave of anxiety, confusion, and emotional distress.Seven-year-old Hazel, living in Kerala’s Trivandrum, had no concept of Pakistan until last week. Now, she insists her mother check the door for threats and frets about an impending attack.
“It all started after an awareness session at school. She heard her friends say that Pakistan would attack and we would all die,” said Annu Mathew, her mother. “It’s been difficult to explain to her that she’s safe.”
Sleepless Nights and Doomscrolling
The psychological impact is not limited to children. In Delhi, 36-year-old Mahendra Awasthi finds himself endlessly scrolling through social media, caught between panic and misinformation.“I want to stop but can’t. I feel like I’ll miss some urgent update. What if Delhi is next?” he said, voice trembling.
His anxiety reflects a larger unease across the nation, one that intensified after reports of fresh explosions and blackouts in border areas — despite a ceasefire being declared by India and Pakistan, with US President Donald Trump confirming the truce.
Operation Sindoor and Its Aftermath
The panic began during the night of May 6-7, when India launched Operation Sindoor in retaliation for the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people. The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. In the days that followed, exchanges between the two countries sparked widespread concern, not just militarily but mentally.Experts Warn of Psychological Fallout
Mental health professionals caution that the barrage of war-related content, especially online, can have a long-lasting impact on mental well-being, even for those not in immediate danger.“Constant media coverage and emotionally intense social media content can cause vicarious trauma,” said clinical psychologist Shweta Sharma. “The unpredictability of war scenarios disrupts the brain’s ability to regulate stress.”
Children are especially vulnerable.
“Young minds can absorb fear and misinformation rapidly. It’s crucial to talk to them in age-appropriate language, offer reassurance, and encourage open dialogue,” she added.
Annu Mathew, following this advice, takes Hazel to their balcony to show her the peaceful skies. “Once she sees nothing is happening, she starts to calm down.”
From Anxiety to Emergency Preparedness
Some, like Jaipur’s Aniket Singh (name changed), have taken drastic steps. After the Pahalgam attack, he stocked up on food, medicines, cash, and power banks, fearing the worst.“I feel this isn’t enough. I’m still extremely anxious and overwhelmed,” he admitted.
According to senior family therapist Maitri Chand, such actions can both soothe and amplify anxiety.
“It's a tightrope. While preparedness gives a sense of control, it can also deepen panic if not balanced with calm,” she said.
Chand recommends short meditative breaks, a belief system (religious or otherwise), and helping others manage their emotions.
“Fear and anxiety are contagious. But so is calm. Helping someone else, even by just listening, can be a healing act.”
The Road to Mental Resilience
As the conflict’s emotional toll continues, experts stress the importance of credible information, emotional regulation, and community support. While vigilance is necessary, unchecked panic can be equally destructive.“Stay informed, but take digital breaks. Reassure children and the elderly. Talk to each other,” said Sharma. “We may not control global politics, but we can control how we respond to it.”
In times of uncertainty, maintaining mental clarity and compassion can serve as the strongest defense.
