psychological effects of terrorism

Terrorism can cause significant psychological effects, including heightened fear, anxiety, and mistrust within communities. People may experience chronic stress, feelings of helplessness, and a loss of sense of safety and normalcy. Some individuals develop symptoms of depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after exposure to violent events. The widespread fear can lead to social withdrawal, changes in behavior, and increased suspicion of others. These effects can persist long after incidents, impacting mental health, daily functioning, and community cohesion, underscoring the profound psychological toll of terrorist acts.