How To Receive Support During The Crisis In Israel
We at Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg are heartbroken and horrified at the news of the situation in Israel. The loss of human life, both soldiers and civilians is staggering. We pray for the safe return of the all the hostages, and we mourn all the losses that have occurred.
We are aware that our own Central PA community is experiencing fear and uncertainty in the face of this crisis, and we are here to help.
How To Talk To Children and Teens
Alongside these community conversations, we also have links for how to talk to your youth about the current crisis.
My heart breaks with each update from Israel. Like so many others, I am worried sick about the human beings..........
The Jewish Education Project did a webinar on ‘How To Talk to Kids About Israel Today.’
Protecting Your Mental Health From Violent Content Online
It's Okay To Not Be Okay.
Fear, uncertainty, and the sense of being unable to help can cause us to feel stressed, overwhelmed, and powerless. This drains us emotionally and physically, making daily tasks difficult to complete.
To cope with this type of stress, it is helpful to remind yourself of things that you can control. Even when it may not feel like it, you can control how you care for yourself.
Some things you can do to take care of yourself are:
- Try to maintain a normal daily/weekly routine.
- Take breaks from watching, listening, or reading the news or social media.
- Connect with your community and faith-based organizations.
- Attend a community listening/conversation event.
- Take time to unwind by going for a walk, jog or run.
- Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, nicotine, or other substances.
- Take care of your body by ensuring you are eating, hydrating, and sleeping.
- Writing, drawing, or painting your thoughts and emotions can help provide some release of the energy.
- Talk with family and/or friends about what you are experiencing.
If you are unable to complete daily activities for an extended period or begin to experience thoughts about suicide, it is important to talk to a licensed mental health professional or seek support from crisis services.
You can also contact the national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
