Israel braces for tomorrow's agony: How to cope during our darkest hours

As Israel prepares to receive four slain hostages from Hamas, many of us will experience a complex wave of emotions. Dr. Bernard Golden's research on emotional awareness offers valuable insights for processing these difficult moments:

Listen to Your Body

When the news feels overwhelming, find a quiet space, take deep breaths, and check in with yourself. Pay attention to physical sensations – tension in your shoulders, tightness in your chest, or a churning stomach. These bodily signals often reveal emotions we haven't yet processed.

Don't Judge Your Feelings

There's no "right" way to feel during national trauma. You might experience anger, grief, numbness, or all three at once. Research shows that judging our emotional reactions often leads to increased anxiety and stress. Instead, practice what psychologists call "emotional awareness" – simply acknowledge your feelings without criticizing them.

Take Your "Emotional Pulse"

Throughout the day, especially after seeing news updates, pause for a minute or two to identify what you're feeling. Are you anxious about watching the news coverage? Angry at the situation? Sad for the families? Understanding your emotional state helps you make better decisions about what you need in the moment – whether that's connecting with others or taking a break from media.

Build Emotional Resilience

During prolonged national crises, emotional resilience becomes crucial. Try these research-backed approaches:

- Practice self-compassion: Remind yourself that feeling overwhelmed is a normal human response

- Use mindfulness: Focus on the present moment rather than spiraling into worst-case scenarios

- Connect with others: Share your feelings with trusted friends or family

- Monitor media consumption: It's okay to step away when you need to

Remember, processing national trauma takes time, and seeking professional help isn't a sign of weakness – it's a sign of self-awareness. Israel's trauma support services are available 24/7 for those who need additional support.