Children May Look Fine, But War Anxiety Can Show Up in Behavior

Amid the recent security turmoil, including missile launches from Iran, changing instructions and an unstable safety situation, children may appear to be carrying on normally, but many are in a state of sustained alertness and anxiety. The article says children do not always say, “I am afraid” or “I am anxious”; instead, they often express fear through changes in behavior.

Signs can include refusing to leave the shelter area, asking where the nearest protected room is, checking a charged phone repeatedly, being startled by loud noises, becoming more clingy, or having trouble separating from parents. Anxiety may also show up as stomachaches, headaches, nausea, fatigue, irritability, trouble concentrating, withdrawal, loss of interest in activities, or a stronger need to control what will happen next.

Experts urge parents to reduce children’s exposure to news and social media content, including videos, rumors and graphic images on TikTok, WhatsApp, Instagram and YouTube. Because children may not distinguish between a faraway event and an immediate threat, even one frightening clip can trigger worry and sleep problems. Parents are advised to give age-appropriate, calming explanations, emphasize that there is a protected space for sheltering, and convey that the family is together and safe as possible.

The article recommends grounding exercises, slow breathing, a long hug, keeping routines around meals and sleep, and using play, drawing or writing to help children express feelings. Younger children can benefit from guided imagery of a safe place, while teenagers may feel calmer with practical control, such as preparing an emergency bag, learning Home Front Command instructions, or building a family plan for an alarm. If anxiety persists and affects daily functioning, sleep, school or social life, families should seek mental-health or parenting support. Children and teens who lost a parent are especially vulnerable, and the organization Hamaniyot is offering tailored emotional, social and community support.