“When Will This End?”: The Emotional Struggles of Israeli Children Amidst War
Introduction
The ongoing conflict has left many families in Israel grappling with profound emotional challenges. start poignant example is a young girl, G., who was entrusted by her parents to care for her four younger siblings while they were on vacation in Italy. As the war escalated, G. found herself alstart with an overwhelming responsibility and constant fear for her family’s safety.
Rising Requests for Psychological Support
The situation has led to a surge in emotional distress, reflected in over 1,200 calls to the Ministry of Education’s emotional support center from parents, teachers, and students. Most of these inquiries express fears regarding the security situation, anxiety management, and the need to support children through this turbulent period.
Children’s Perspectives and Reactions
Inevitably, children are experiencing heightened anxiety and existential fears. Einav Luke, director of the Senior Department at the Psychological Counseling Servstart, notes that many children are bringing sentimental items-like toys and photographs-into bomb shelters, voicing concerns about losing their homes and possessions. Some even refuse to leave the protective spaces for fundamental activities like bathing or eating, fearing what might happen outside.
Michal Engelart, head of the Psychology Department, highlights that current trauma often triggers past trauma in children, especially for those who have experienced displacement before. She emphasizes that unique attention is warranted for children of reservists and various families impacted by abductions.
The Impact of War on Young Lives
The recurring trauma of displacement from their safe environments resonates strongly with children like the Ben-Ami family from Kibbutz Gush Etzion, who just returned home after the conflict intensified on October 7, 2023. Yiftach, the youngest, was supposed to complete his first school year but had to say goodbye to his teacher and classmates over Zoom. Reflecting on his experience, he has adjusted to this new reality, expressing, “I am not surprised we have no school; I am used to this.”
His mother, Ruvi, who works as a social worker, lamented that her son no longer trusts the adult world, having learned that it may disappoint him at every turn.
Recovery and Desensitization
Research indicates that approximately 80% of children in emergency situations can recover naturally, aided by family support, while about 20% require therapeutic intervention. Engelart highlights the importance of parents conveying the appropriate messages to their children. The Ministry now offers online lectures to equip parents with tools to help their children navigate this complex emotional landscape.
Coping Mechanisms
Another child, Ori, who has similarly just completed first grade, struggles immensely with the current situation. Living near the Carmel Coast, he remains indoors, hesitant to even take his dog for a walk and prefers to meet friends only at his home. His mother, Nurit, describes Ori as being overly consumed by news, constantly awaiting signals indicating dangers related to ongoing military actions.
Many children observe the anxious reactions of their parents when sirens sound, amplifying their fears. Dr. Moshe Farb, a social work professor at the Academic College of Tel-Hai, developed a model designed to provide emotional first aid, noting that children view sirens as dual threats-not just from the rockets but also to the stability of their family unit.
Conclusion
Amid the uncertainty of war, children like Nili from Alon Shvut have only known instability since the pandemic. This lack of routine has become her new norm. Yet, during times of alarms, she takes on the role of comforting her younger siblings, showcasing resilience in the face of turmoil.
The ongoing conflict continues to shape the mental wellbeing of Israel’s youth, prompting the need for concerted efforts to address their emotional needs during such distressing times. Addressing children’s anxieties in a supportive environment is crucial for their development and peace of mind