Are we becoming hardened to horror, or simply learning to survive it?

Israelis are experiencing what might be described as a tearing of the fabric of shock and empathy—but not because hearts have grown callous. Rather, this represents a psychological defence mechanism, an attempt by the mind to protect itself and continue functioning in the face of persistent threat. The numbness many feel is less about indifference and more about the exhausting work required to maintain normal life amid ongoing crisis. When tragedy becomes routine, the human psyche develops protective barriers as a matter of survival. This is not moral failure, but psychological necessity. The question facing Israeli society is whether this necessary coping mechanism—the emotional distance required to function—comes at a deeper cost to our collective humanity and social fabric. As waves of security threats, conflict and loss continue, many Israelis find themselves caught between two impossible demands: feeling the full weight of each tragedy, and remaining functional enough to live, work and care for their families. The tension between these two needs may define the psychological experience of Israelis in this extended period of conflict and uncertainty.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.