Background: The media plays a critical role in modern psychological warfare, acting as a weapon to inflict psychological harm on societies. This study aims to explain the concept of psychological warfare, examine its goals and characteristics, clarify its consequences for the health system, and identify preparedness and response measures.
Methods: We reviewed international databases and documents using relevant English keywords. Extracted data were categorized and analyzed into four main themes: definitions, goals, consequences for health systems, and preparedness and response measures. AI tools assisted in data categorization under strict ethical supervision.
Results: Psychological warfare involves planned actions designed to influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to weaken opponents without physical weapons. It targets community mental health through three mechanisms: impairing reality detection, inducing fear, and eroding social capital. Health system preparedness requires a multi-level approach encompassing governance, mental health monitoring, rumor management, risk communication, psychosocial support, media literacy, and staff training.
Conclusion: Psychological warfare targets the cultural and psychological aspects of audiences to influence their beliefs. Understanding its methods is essential for health systems responsible for public mental health. Given the rise of digital media and cognitive operations, preparedness for psychological warfare must be integrated into disaster management. Investing in mental health, media literacy, and social resilience significantly enhances a community's capacity to cope with the psychological impacts of this modern threat.