The article focuses on the ambiguous loss in Israel, in the context of the October 7, 2023 attack, which left hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a state of kidnapping, captivity, or absence. This situation, known as "present-absent," is described as an ongoing trauma characterized by painful uncertainty.
It examines how this type of loss affects the individual, the family, and society, and proposes a comprehensive therapeutic approach. The article details a variety of therapeutic models, such as narrative therapy, mindfulness-based CBT, ACT, and ABC-X, and presents guiding principles for working with those affected by ambiguous loss. These principles include building a broad family narrative, identifying and using existing resources, and encouraging emotional movement between hope and grief.
Drawing on the clinical experience gained in the “Port of Safety” project, the article emphasizes the need for gentle emotional mediation and specific professional knowledge for dealing with ambiguous loss. It also notes the importance of creating a support network that will protect caregivers themselves from burnout and secondary traumatization.
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