The Wounds That Do Not Heal: The Trauma of War on the Soul of a Nation

Since the dawn of civilization, the horrors of war have haunted humanity. For the people of Israel, conflict and trauma have become an intimate companion. With every siren's cry, missile's whistle, and soldier's sacrifice, the tremors of trauma penetrate deeper into the national psyche. Though the physical wounds may mend in time, the invisible scars on the hearts and minds of our people remain.

The events of recent weeks have unleashed fresh waves of trauma, striking at the core of communities from the Gaza border to Tel Aviv. Each innocent life lost stains the collective soul. Our children now sleep with one eye open, wary of the next round of violence. The elderly, having borne witness to decades of war, shake their heads solemnly, wondering when the madness will end. Even for those physically untouched by the carnage, the emotional turmoil can be overwhelming.

The wounds of trauma know no boundaries of age, gender or geography. They can emerge slowly like a creeping plague, or strike suddenly without warning. The hypervigilance, anxiety and despair are a heavy yoke to bear. Trust, joy and hope begin to crack and crumble under the burden. For those already struggling, trauma can push them into the abyss.

Yet even in darkness, shards of light persist. Families and friends draw closer, clinging to community and tradition. The compassion of strangers reveals whispered glimpses of humanity's divinity. We support and strengthen one another, even as we nurse our own hidden injuries. It is this unbreakable spirit that has sustained our people through millennia of exile and anguish. Though the trauma penetrates deep, it will not defeat us.

Still, the work of healing remains. The veterans who stake their lives to defend Israel's borders should not be left to suffer in silence. Mental health care must be made accessible to all. The children who tremble and weep must be comforted and counseled. Space for grief, anger and pain must be created. Recovery takes time, courage and social support. By standing together, listening and validating one another's experiences, the talons of trauma loosen their grip.

The PTSD which haunts so many, both soldier and civilian alike, serves as a reminder that the trauma of conflict irrevocably changes us. Yet it also awakens within our hearts the seeds of resilience, illuminating the strength of the human spirit when faced with unspeakable darkness. May we have compassion for our own wounds, and those of others. By recognizing that beneath the trauma beats a divine soul, step by step, we will rebuild and heal as individuals and as a nation. Though the road is long, our destination is peace.

Roi Shternin is a passionate patient advocate and motivational speaker dedicated to empowering those with mental health challenges or invisible disabilities. After experiencing undiagnosed trauma and PTSD for nearly a decade, he was diagnosed with POTS. This inspired him to found The Patient School to educate and build community for those struggling similarly. Roi now gives acclaimed keynote speeches sharing his story of strength and resilience despite adversity, motivating audiences to break stigma and take control of their well-being. Through self-care and refusing to be defined by illness, Roi empowers others facing obstacles with a message of hope and reminder that they are never alone. He continues creating supportive spaces so no one feels unseen when seeking care.