Dear NYC-CBT Community,

We are horrified by the atrocious terrorist attacks on Israeli civilians by Hamas leading to, in its current count, twelve hundred deaths and over a hundred fifty hostages. Many in our community are trying to process this threat to the one Jewish state, support family and friends abroad, navigate painful or inadequate responses by institutions and on social media, mourn loss of innocent lives, while still providing treatment and support to patients, many of whom have also been affected.

In light of this, we wanted to offer resources and support for our community and patients.

Consider ways you can help right now and ways your efforts may be more productive.

Ways to help:

1. Donating money and services. A number of you have posted about providing therapy support to Israelis suffering and some of you are offering support groups for affected Americans.

See this site for specific organizations: Help Israel

2. Come together. Coming together is always helpful in these situations. Look to UJA, local synagogues, schools and other institutions for community get-togethers.

3. Stand up for what you believe. Speak to your institutions if you are unhappy with their response to this crisis.

4. One of the ways we can help is by being present for our patients and each other.

Important tips for you and your patients:

1. Moderate reading the news and viewing images. It is important to stay informed, but obsessively consuming information gives a false sense of control. Catch up sparingly. Choosing to decrease news consumption may increase guilt, as news consumption may feel like the most accessible way to connect to what is going on. Instead, redirect your attention to things you can actually control (i.e. donating, connecting, speaking out).

2. Give yourself and your patients permission to feel whatever comes up without judgment. It's ok to not be ok right now!

3. Even though it may be hard to continue with the day-to-day, the day to day is the best strategy to maintain sturdiness and resilience. Try to create a routine. Give yourself small daily tasks. Listen to music, exercise, and meet up with friends. Do not judge yourself if you are not functioning optimally right now.

We hope everyone can take good care of themselves while they are caring for others.

NYC-CBT Association Board