We are currently navigating difficult and uncertain times. Most of us, in various ways, are experiencing to stressful events that undermine our sense of safety and security of ourselves and our loved ones.
During times like these, strengthening your emotional resilience is especially important.
What Happens to Us When We Feel Fear?
When we experience an event or events that evoke feelings of fear and danger, our minds and bodies react:
- Our mood changes and we may feel emotions such as tension, worry, anger, and sadness
- Concentration and focus are affected - our thinking might become pessimistic, and we repeatedly dwell on the difficult experiences we’ve been through
- Our body is affected - appetite and sleep patterns change, and we may experience unpleasant physical sensations such as stomach aches, trembling, rapid heartbeat, or headaches
It’s important to remember that these are normal and natural responses to the difficult situation we’re experiencing. However, there are ways to help ourselves feel better.
How Can We Support Ourselves?
Prioritize Safety and Security
- Follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the military and security authorities. Stay in a safe room, shelter, or protected area whenever instructed to do so.
- Create a comfortable and comforting space in the protected area by setting it up with blankets, personal items, leisure activities, and your favorite snacks.
- If you’re currently staying somewhere other than your home, try to make the space feel more familiarand welcoming.
Maintain Your Home Clean and Organized
- Stick to a routine as much as possible: get dressed in the morning, maintain regular meal times, and include activities in your daily schedule that are unrelated to the current situation.
- Limit screen time and media consumption: excessive exposure to news and communication increases tension and stress. Try to consume news in moderation, prioritize reading literature over constantly reading the news, and remove apps that “push” unnecessary information, except for those providing official Home Front Command updates.
- Avoid distressing or overly emotional videos.
- Give yourself permission to be distracted: enjoy a ctivities like dancing, cooking, taking a shower, or looking at photos of your favorite places to visit. This helps your brain shift focus to more positive thoughts.
- Incorporate physical activity: find a form of exercise that you enjoy and that suits your current environment.
- Try participating in activities that provide assistance and support to others - these foster a sense of purpose and belonging, which are good for our soul.
Calm Your Body and Mind
There are several activities you can do to help calm both your body and mind:
- Practice proper breathing: Inhale deeply while counting to four, hold your breath for a moment, and then exhale slowly until all the air is released.
- Hug yourself.
- Remind your body of the ways it can find calmness by using the elements around you.
- Practice
Don’t Stay Alone
- Share your feelings and thoughts with those close to you. You’ll discover that you’re not alone.
- Talk to others not only about your worries but also about other topics.
- You can also contact us through
Downloadable Resources
For Adults
Exercises and videos for coping with anxiety >>
Emotional coping with anxiety related to the war - for adults >>
For Children
Helping children cope with uncertainty >>
Reducing anxiety in children during wartime >>
Information for children about loss, grief, and abduction >>
Tried the suggestions in the video but still feeling distressed?
Remember, change takes time and persistence.
Still struggling?
Talk to us >>
Mental health clinic treatments >>
Tools for self-care >>
