By: Nativia Samuelsen

“After the alarm, I sent a message to myself saying I was okay. Do you know what it’s like to not even have anyone to tell that you’re alive? To know that if you died, no one would notice?”

This heartbreaking question, voiced by a young Israeli affected by the recent turmoil, captures the stark reality of youth in Israel struggling through layers of trauma and isolation. The war has left thousands of young people vulnerable, battling fear, anxiety, and feelings of abandonment. These silent struggles often go unseen, yet the statistics are impossible to ignore.

Since the current conflict began, approximately 60% of evacuated Israeli youth report feeling intensely lonely, while 46% suffer from heightened anxiety and depression. A concerning 47% increase in substance use has been observed among youth aged 12-15, reflecting their efforts to cope with the psychological strain. Meanwhile, close to 48,000 children have been evacuated from their homes, many without adequate support, compounding their isolation.

Amid this crisis, the ICEJ has stepped in, supporting critical programs for Israeli Jewish and Arab youth with a focus on mental health support, vocational training, and safe, therapeutic environments where young people can reconnect and heal.

To ensure sustained emotional recovery, the ICEJ sponsors tailored therapy approaches, including animal-assisted programs. In these settings, children connect with animals in a non-verbal way, allowing them to process their experiences without the pressure of words. Such programs offer a lifeline for youth who find it difficult to communicate their pain or feel judged for expressing it.

Some young people expressed this struggle directly: “I try to share, but everyone has been through something in this war. When I open up, people start judging or comparing my story to their own. So, I just keep it to myself.” The lack of safe, non-judgmental spaces for expression is a significant barrier, so creating environments where youth feel validated and understood is critical at this time.

In response to the growing need for safe spaces, especially for evacuated youth after last October 7th, the ICEJ supported a pop-up site where young people met with youth workers in Ma’ale HaChamisha. This project created a supportive environment for Israeli youth who had been uprooted from their homes with no clear timeline for return. Many of these youth had turned to negative coping mechanisms as they navigated their trauma, making the establishment of this site crucial for their healing process.

The pop-up site, which provided a home-like atmosphere in a cosy tent, contrasted with the crowded hotel accommodations where they had been relocated. It offered youth a warm and safe space just for them that allowed them to connect with their peers, engage in meaningful activities, and access on-site counselling. This initiative not only addressed their immediate emotional needs but also fostered resilience and a sense of community during a time of uncertainty.

ICEJ also supported youth and family camps for evacuees. These camps offered activities that promoted bonding among families and allowed young people to form friendships with peers who shared similar experiences. By fostering open dialogue and emotional support, these camps helped families navigate the trauma of displacement together.

In addition, we continue to help address educational gaps widened by the conflict. By offering vocational training, young people can regain control over their futures and reconnect with their personal goals. This approach empowers youth to envision a future filled with hope and opportunity.  As one participant, Nur, shared: “Every class enriched my knowledge and skills. The certificate I received didn’t just boost my resume—it opened doors and impressed interviewers. And the follow-up support was crucial, even after the classes ended.” Through vocational training and post-training follow-ups, youth feel more empowered to shape their own futures and, with increased resilience, are prepared to overcome challenges with confidence.

The trauma of war has left a lasting impact, with experts estimating that up to 60,000 Israelis may face post-traumatic stress disorder due to recent events. Yet ICEJ’s sponsorship of these vital programs brings hope to young people across Israel. Through holistic support addressing emotional, educational, and psychological needs, ICEJ is helping these youth rediscover a sense of resilience and self-worth.

Your support of the ICEJ’s efforts sends a powerful message to Israel’s young people: they are not forgotten, their stories are heard, and their futures hold promise. By standing with ICEJ, you help empower these youth to reclaim hope, resilience, and the chance for a brighter tomorrow.

Donate today: help.icej.org/crisis