| Guidelines: Managing the trauma from war in Israel
There are no words that can adequately express our collective sadness and horror over the events that occurred in Israel over the holiday. We all pray for an end to the loss of life and to this war.
Here are some topline tips to manage this trauma. You can click below for many more strategies, including some grouped by age.
Taking care of yourself: As you continue to process this news, remember, all feelings are legitimate. There is no right or wrong way to react. It is important that you make space to care for your own needs during this painful time. - Recognize and accept your feelings as normal responses to extreme and abnormal circumstances.
- Since everybody reacts differently, people close to you may not react as you do. It's important to respect everybody's coping style. When looking for support, look for someone who you believe is able to provide the compassionate response that you need.
· Taking care of your children: While every horrifying detail need not be shared, the basic information should be told to your children in age-appropriate language that includes a realistic sense of immediate danger. Some talking points may include: - From the beginning of time, the Jewish people have faced enemies and have triumphed. We have experienced loss and we have rebuilt.
- We are far away from the fighting and we are safe.
- Many people around the world are supporting Israel and will be helping them win this war.
- There is a lot of information circulating: some are rumors and some are fact. Children should come to you with any questions and you will clarify the information.
- The greatest antidote to acts of war, are acts of Ahavas Yisroel, chesed, and connection. All Jews feel responsible for one another and are with each other in this crisis. This message should be reinforced.
Here are more guidelines and tips for managing this trauma.
If you have questions, or need more support, you can email us or call 516-659-9420. | 
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