What It’s About
Oct7KIDS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding Israeli children in managing their emotional well-being following the traumatic events of October 7th. By providing targeted mental health resources, this organization strives to address the psychological needs of Israel’s younger generation during these trying times.
Why It Matters
The profound impact of the October 7th tragedy on the Israeli population, especially children, has given rise to a pressing need for specialized mental health support. Organizations like Oct7KIDS play a crucial role in fostering resilience, empowerment, and independence among Israel’s youth, ensuring that they can navigate the challenges brought about by continual conflict and instability.
The Background
Following the October 7th massacre, Israelis experienced a considerable rise in mental health issues, including General Anxiety, PTSD, and depression. Ongoing hostilities, captured during Operation Swords of Iron, have exacerbated these conditions, notably affecting the vulnerable demographic of children.
Established Legacy
During the Second Intifada, Yeshara Gold founded KidsForKids, a nonprofit offering supports for young victims of terrorism. Building on this legacy, she has now established Oct7KIDS, focusing on empowering Israeli children to champion their own psychological resilience.
Key Approaches
Empowered Youth
At the heart of Oct7KIDS is the belief that children, with proper guidance, are their own best heroes. Utilizing methods such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for PTSD and the revolutionary Recovery Support Group program for cognitive and emotional self-regulation, the organization equips children to manage their mental health actively.
Customized Therapies
Understanding that each child’s trauma is unique, Oct7KIDS offers tailored programs. Whether addressing PTSD, general anxiety, or grief, the organization provides individualized treatments that consider the specific mental health needs of each child.
Innovative Healing Programs
Creative Expression Through Art
Sara-Lidya Singer leads art sessions for evacuee children, allowing them to express their emotional turmoil through creativity. These sessions also serve as collaborative bridges between Israeli children and those in the Diaspora facing antisemitic responses globally.
Bear-y Friend Forever (BFF) Project
Combining the comfort of teddy bears with emotional support, Oct7KIDS distributes these bears alongside heartfelt messages from other children, contributing to the psychological solace and unity among young members of the community.
Community-Driven Methods
Oct7KIDS extends its reach by training community leaders such as teachers and social workers to impart therapeutic methods, creating a cascade effect that brings these essential skills to a broader audience of children in need.
The Impact
Programs like Oct7KIDS are vital as they provide not just immediate therapy but foster long-term resilience in Israeli children, helping them cope with ongoing conflict. By focusing on empowerment and tailored emotional care, Oct7KIDS ensures that Israel’s youth can overcome their toughest challenges, emerging as strong individuals despite the adversity.
This story was first published on jpost.com.