Mental Health in War: Coping Strategies for Hostage Survivors and Families

Jerusalem, Israel — Freedom from captivity marks the end of one nightmare — but the beginning of a new battle for emotional healing.
Israeli hostages freed from Gaza, and their families who suffered months of uncertainty, now face the challenging road of mental recovery.

“Even when the walls fall away, the walls in your mind remain,” survivor Tal Shoham shared after his release. “It takes courage to heal.”

The Silent Battle: Psychological Aftermath

Survivors face severe emotional challenges, including:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Depression and anxiety
• Insomnia and recurring nightmares
• Guilt for surviving when others did not
• Difficulty reconnecting with normal life

Healing the Invisible Wounds

Experts emphasize the importance of:

• Trauma-focused therapy: Counseling specialized for war and captivity survivors.
• Mindfulness and meditation: Techniques survivors like Shoham practiced to survive emotionally even during captivity.
• Support networks: Rebuilding trust through family, friends, and communities.
• Restoring daily structure: Bringing back normalcy to regain a sense of control over life.
• Celebrating progress: Even small victories matter in the healing journey.

As Dr. Noa Barak, a trauma specialist in Jerusalem, explains:
“Healing is not about erasing pain. It’s about learning to live forward while carrying it with strength and compassion.”

Further Reading:

• Freed Israeli Hostage Tal Shoham Speaks Out After 505 Days
• Hope Amid War: Families Reunited After Hostage Releases
• Inside Gaza’s Tunnels: Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds

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