From the Liveblog of
Sunday, April 23, 2023
Emotional aid service ERAN sees 30% rise in calls ahead of tense Memorial Day
Renee Ghert-Zand is the health reporter and a feature writer for The Times of Israel.
ERAN, Israel’s largest emotional first aid service, reports that in the runup to Memorial Day this week it has seen a 30% increase in calls.
The nationwide tensions surrounding the government’s judicial overhaul plans are exacerbating the already difficult time for those who have lost loved ones in wars or terror attacks.
According to Dr. Shiri Daniels, ERAN’s executive director of counseling, calls are coming in from bereaved parents and other family members, PTSD sufferers, IDF veterans suffering from mental injuries, active-duty soldiers who have lost comrades, and parents whose children are about to be drafted or already serving.
“In addition to this, we are dealing this year with the lack of certainty resulting from the political and social situation that is causing many individuals extreme anxiety and stress. People are not sleeping because they are afraid for their future and the future of the country. Some fear that a war will start any time,” Daniels says.
Bereaved families express fear that the sacred traditions of visiting the graves of the fallen will be disturbed by conflicts over planned ceremonies, politicians slated to speak, and possible protests at the cemeteries.
“I am in the midst of a battle for my home and my mental well-being,” one caller said.
