The ceasefire may have silenced the sirens, but for many Israelis, the war with Iran still resonates inside. Feelings of fear, anxiety, restlessness, and emotional exhaustion persist, affecting both adults and children. "We all adopted emergency behaviors to survive this period," says Dr. Lior Cohen, a clinical psychologist and head of mental health services at Meuhedet in the Jerusalem district. "Now we need to learn how to return to what was before, and that doesn’t happen overnight."
Even with the calm apparently restored, social media is full of posts from people sharing lingering trauma: disrupted sleep, anxiety at the sound of sirens, fear of leaving home, emotional eating, and difficulty concentrating. Some report symptoms of anxiety that simply won't go away.
Dr. Cohen explains that transitioning from emergency to routine is often more complicated than the other way around. The difficulty, he says, operates on two levels—physiological and behavioral. "During prolonged stress, the body releases cortisol and remains on high alert. Even when the external danger passes, the body doesn't automatically reset. It takes time for the physiological systems to regain balance."
At the same time, many developed new habits: irregular sleep, compulsive snacking, social withdrawal, and persistent fear. "All of us adopted emergency habits to cope. Now, as we return to routine, we need to re-learn our previous way of life. That process takes time and patience."
The brain remains on alert
Despite the ceasefire, the brain continues to scan for threats. “In emergencies, the brain activates the ‘fight or flight’ response,” explains Dr. Cohen. “Once the danger fades, the brain doesn’t immediately switch off. It continues to operate in survival mode.” This lingering alertness can show up as confusion, trouble focusing, or a feeling of emptiness - all signs that the brain hasn’t yet lowered its defenses.
People also report behavioral aftershocks, including poor sleep, irritability, emotional fatigue, and a strong craving for sweets. “This is a biological response,” he explains. “The body seeks ways to self-soothe, often through sugar.”
When to seek help
Most people, Dr. Cohen says, will gradually recover within a few days to two weeks. Still, the intensity and duration of symptoms matter. “If you struggle to resume basic functions like sleeping well, eating properly, or functioning at work or home, it may be time to seek professional help. Don’t go through it alone.”
Children feel it too
It’s not only adults who are struggling. Parents are observing their children deal with confusion, irritability, and even refusal to return to school or other daily activities. “Like adults, children may exhibit anger, restlessness, or withdrawal,” says Dr. Cohen. “But they lack the emotional or cognitive tools to understand that the danger has passed. They need adults to help them interpret reality.”
He stresses the importance of open, age-appropriate communication. Gradual reintroduction to routines - regular sleep, balanced meals, and physical activity- can help children feel more secure. “With the right emotional support, most children will bounce back.”
You don’t need to be on the front lines to be affected
Dr. Cohen emphasizes that even individuals not directly impacted by missile attacks, such as those who haven't lost loved ones or homes, are feeling emotional effects. “Since October 7, we’ve observed that people nationwide, and even internationally - are experiencing anxiety, sadness, or stress,” he states.
He explains that this is a natural response based on empathy, a sense of community, and the understanding that trauma can affect anyone. “It’s not only proximity to danger that matters, but how the mind absorbs the experience.”
How to ease the transition
So what can we do to help ourselves and others cope? Dr. Cohen suggests a gradual return to normalcy. “Maintain consistent sleep, regular meals, and movement. Routine creates stability and a sense of safety - it’s a real anchor.”
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or guided imagery can help reduce both physical and mental tension. Exercise can also be very effective. “Movement helps regulate the nervous system - in both adults and children.”
And don’t underestimate the power of talking. “Conversations with friends, family, or others going through the same thing help foster connection and lessen feelings of isolation. Knowing you’re not alone strengthens emotional resilience.”
The double-edged sword of social media
In recent weeks, social media has become a platform for sharing anxiety and emotional overload. "Seeing others share their experiences reassures us that we’re not alone," says Dr. Cohen. But he warns of the downside: “Constant exposure to emotionally charged or distressing content can overwhelm us and make it harder to calm down." The key, he says, is balance. “Take breaks from screens. Make time for things that truly soothe the mind, like face-to-face interactions, movement, or anything that nurtures your inner peace.”
Help is available
Meuhedet’s professional teams, including psychologists and social workers, have been deployed to hotels housing thousands of displaced individuals to provide immediate psychological first aid. The mental health hotline operates 24/7 at *3833, offering support to anyone in need of a listening ear. Additionally, up to 30 free remote therapy sessions are available via video calls with certified psychologists and psychotherapists. These sessions include individual emotional support, parental guidance, teen support, and help for discharged soldiers and reservists, creating a safe and supportive environment, especially for those struggling to readjust to daily life.
Tal Livneh is the District Director of Mental Health Services of Meuhedet in Jerusalem.