Dramatic long-term consequences: How Stasi victims still suffer today

The article illuminates the long -term psychological consequences of political persecution in the GDR, examines current research results from Leipzig and other cities and shows the challenges for affected victims.
The article illuminates the long -term psychological consequences of political persecution in the GDR, examines current research results from Leipzig and other cities and shows the challenges for affected victims. (Symbolbild/NAG)

Dramatic long-term consequences: How Stasi victims still suffer today

The shadows of the past are longer than many. Studies from various cities such as Jena, Leipzig, Magdeburg and Rostock have now confirmed that former youth workers and politically imprisoned have significantly higher rates of psychological disorders than the rest of the population. The collected data reports MDR that these people often suffer from complex health problems for decades.

The results of the decomposition victims of the GDR, which not only have mental illness, but also a higher tendency to physical complaints, are particularly alarming. These affected people, who had to experience profound stress through state-based measures such as isolation and psychological torture, are often also confronted with cardiovascular problems and pain syndromes. Prof. Dr. Bernhard Strauß that many of the victims often do not feel taken seriously in terms of their experiences - both in advice and in court.

The consequences of political persecution

The process of German reunification illuminated the drastic dimensions of political persecution in the former GDR. According to estimates, between 1945 and 1989 between 170,000 and over 300,000 people were politically persecuted. Four main phases of this persecution have been identified, which range from specialized camps to detention and psychological torture methods. Details can be found in the report of the Federal Center for Political Education

A central term in this context is the "decomposition". This was methods with which the Ministry of State Security (MfS) wanted to undermine the self -esteem of dissidents and generate fear. Not only was personal freedom restricted, but also intervened in all areas of life of those affected. Many of them experienced extreme isolation and hidden surveillance measures, which resulted in a feeling of constant surveillance years after dismissal.

long -term studies and current challenges

The long -term consequences of this trauma were examined in detail in a study by the University of Zurich. Over two thirds of the respondents reported post -traumatic stress disorders (PTBS). It is particularly revealing that many of those affected were unable to use a psychotherapeutic assistance after the release of prison or received inadequate care. Only Ärzteblatt emphasizes that the situation regarding therapy offers is improved has, however, still has a considerable need for action in order to meet the victims of the SED dictatorship.

The social recognition and reappraisal of these topics remains of great importance. Andreas Maercker, the study manager, emphasizes that the long -term consequences of political detainees will remain a relevant topic and demands comprehensive support for offers of help. The history of political persecution in the GDR has not only shaped individual fates, but also affected their descendants, which often suffer from their parents' psychological stress.

The memories of the different phases of persecution are painful, but dealing with these topics is essential for the healing and integration of the people concerned into society. This is the only way to keep the collective memory and a warning teaching will be given to future generations.

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OrtLeipzig, Deutschland
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