Image by [The New Arab]
South Africa – The ongoing war in Gaza has generated a collective whirlwind of emotions, leaving many people struggling with overwhelming anxiety, depression, and secondary trauma. Continuous exposure to distressing reports and graphic depictions of violence, loss, and suffering has led us to internalise the trauma experienced by the Palestinians.
The weight of their besiegement and constant bombardment often showcased on social media, has become a part of our daily lives to the extent that their reality is perceived as our own. However, Zaheera Singh, the Director of ToughLove SA, cautions against this behaviour and the internalisation of the Palestinians’ experiences.
While it is natural to empathise with their plight and, to some degree, feel their pain, the reality is that we are not in their position. We cannot assist them effectively if we are crippled by our emotions.
“We need to have coping methods and mechanisms in place so that we can help them. If you’re trying to help somebody with an empty cup, you cannot do that. But if you are healed, you are able to help them from a better position.”
Express Your Emotions
While maintaining empathy and concern for the Palestinians is crucial, it is equally essential to prioritise your emotional well-being and take care of yourself.
You might experience guilt when going about your daily life as usual and finding moments of enjoyment. However, practising self-care should not be seen as a betrayal of your compassion.
It is a means of safeguarding your mental health, enabling you to sustain your ability to support and advocate for those enduring the hardships bestowed upon them.
In this regard, Singh recommends acknowledging your feelings. Allow yourself to experience your emotions and express them when necessary.
“Once you reestablish a routine for yourself … And you tell yourself, I’m going to feel my feelings, go through my trauma, and I’m going to cry if I need to. I’m not going to judge myself, and I’m going to be fine with whatever is happening because I know I’m stronger than that.”
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How Do We Preserve Our Emotional and Psychological Health?
One of the most evident strategies to achieve this is to reduce exposure to and consumption of content related to the Gaza war.
Singh recommends taking breaks from all forms of media and seeking education about different coping techniques. However, she emphasises that if the war’s horrors become too overwhelming, it is crucial to seek professional help.
Furthermore, it is essential to discover ways to redirect and occupy our minds with other activities. This will enable us to gain a better understanding of our thoughts and emotions, allowing us to channel our empathy more productively in our efforts to assist the Palestinian people.
“We know that for as long as the [Palestinians] are in pain, we are in pain. As long as we recognise that and not obsess about the traumatic events, we will be fine.”
