Evacuees who have been displaced by the October 7 disaster are facing a range of challenges as they try to adapt to life in hotels. Older individuals who have lost their homes are struggling with adapting to new living conditions, while some couples are requesting separate rooms, potentially leading to further separations.
Small business owners who have been unemployed for over six months are also struggling emotionally, as they face uncertainty and a lack of purpose. Other challenges include single parents coping with unique difficulties, children engaging in risky behaviors due to lack of structure, and a lack of continuous educational responses causing issues among youth.
Despite these challenges, there is hope for those affected by the disaster. Therapeutic techniques such as relaxation and breathing exercises, as well as referrals for appropriate treatments, are being utilized to help individuals cope with the complex situation effectively. Family and couple therapies are in high demand, especially among women. Efforts to provide support to youth through various associations and therapeutic groups have been effective in offering a sense of community and structure.
Medical concerns have also arisen among evacuees, with an increase in stress, anxiety, and depression reported. Physical symptoms such as headaches, joint pain, and difficulty sleeping have been noted, along with worsened chronic conditions due to a lack of consistent medical care. The challenges faced by evacuees vary across age groups, with older individuals experiencing unique difficulties related to trauma and loneliness.
As the return to homes after the disaster approaches, fears of recurrence of traumatic events remain high. Professionals are providing tools and support to help individuals express their feelings and cope with the complex situation effectively. It is important for all affected individuals to receive empathy and support during this challenging time
