Many freed Palestinian prisoners traumatised

Hamas authorities have organised welcoming tents for every former Palestinian detainees released in the prisoner swap with Israel.

But the traumatisation of many released men, who have spent a large part of their lives in prisons, has cast a shadow on the celebrations of their release.

Representatives from Gaza’s mental health programme say that studies have found that more than 90 per cent of Palestinian prisoners suffer from physical and psychological torture in Israeli prisons.

However, in a society that treats these men as heroes and defenders, it difficult for many of them to admit they need help.

Al Jazeera’s Nicole Johnston reports from Gaza.