In this episode we delve into the essential topic of developing resilience in the challenging reality that we all face today in Israel. Our experts for this episode, Ayelet Shmuel and Dr. Zohar Rubinstein, share invaluable insights and practical tools for building resilience, drawn from their extensive experience in managing emergency situations.

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What is resilience?

Resilience is not an innate trait but an acquired ability that can be cultivated through daily routine and small tasks we take upon ourselves, and which is built and strengthened following difficult events. Resilience involves the process of returning to ourselves strengthened from where we were at the moment of crisis, with an emphasis that some of us will not return to be exactly who we were before, but with the right tools we can return stronger in line with who we are today. We must integrate the resilience discourse into public awareness, encourage a change in perspective through which some of us look at difficulties in life, and see them as a challenge we have the ability to overcome.

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"Flexibility is the name of the game in building resilience, especially in parenting. The way we raise our children during crises and routine determines their resilience." 

Flexibility and adaptation are critical components of resilience. Dwelling on fairness can impede our ability to cope; instead, adopting problem-solving thinking ("This isn't working - how can I fix it?") can be more effective. Resilience is recognizing the complexity of a situation and finding strength within us to overcome it.

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In the episode we outline key metrics for resilience, including a sense of belonging, meaning, coherence, volunteering and trust in leadership. These factors are especially important in small communities and authorities, emphasizing the power of our unity in the face of distress. 

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We will discuss practical guidelines for building resilience, underscoring the importance of high self-management. We will bring awareness to symptoms through which we can help people assess their mental wellbeing and access appropriate care when needed.