From Hell to Home: Released hostages survived Hamas, yet a long journey of rehabilitation and healing awaits

For the families, this shared trauma is far from over as they navigate the painful realities of reintegration.

While the return marks a joyous occasion, it also brings the harsh truth that the captives’ healing process will take time. The families are dealing with the collective trauma of captivity, which involves not only the painful memories but also the physical injuries sustained and the emotional toll of loss. This recovery journey is made more difficult by the process of readjusting to life outside of captivity. How does a family cope with the first moments of reunion, and how is the loss of loved ones communicated?

A Holistic Support System for Recovery

To aid the families, a supportive infrastructure has been put in place. Last year, the Iron Swords Division was created within the Ministry of Welfare and Social Security. Its goal is to offer a coordinated response to the victims of war, focusing on holistic treatment. According to Or Tzubari, the head of the division, this approach provides each family with personalized support from the moment of the release through their integration back into the community. Social workers are assigned to each family, ensuring continuous care and guidance throughout the entire rehabilitation process.

Five Stages of Reintegration

The reintegration process is broken down into five stages. The first stage involves preparing the families for the reunion, allowing them to decide who will be present when they are finally reunited with their loved ones. The second stage focuses on the first 24 hours post-release, as this period is critical for both emotional and physical recovery. The third stage includes the hospital stay, where the returnees are treated for injuries and begin to receive psychological support.

The fourth stage deals with the transition period, where some families may not want to return home immediately and are offered accommodations nearby or with extended family. The fifth and ongoing stage involves long-term support from social workers, offering continued guidance as the families settle into their new routines. This support can last indefinitely, with assistance tailored to each family's specific needs.

Custom Support for Different Groups

The reintegration process also considers the unique needs of different groups within the family. There are specialized paths for men, women, and children, as their trauma and experiences may differ. For instance, families with fathers returning must also prepare their children for the reintegration, considering the unique emotional impact on younger family members. These tailored solutions are based on previous experiences in trauma care and past releases, taking into account the physical and emotional harm that captives have endured.

Announcing Loss to the Returned Hostages

One of the most difficult moments for the families is how to inform the returnees about any loss that occurred while they were in captivity. The news is carefully communicated in the hospital, with a prepared team present to support the captives through the devastating information. It is believed that delivering the news directly and quickly, rather than letting it arrive indirectly, is crucial for helping them process the loss. This moment is an emotional shock, and the support system ensures that the family and community are also there to provide ongoing care.

The Need for a Supportive Community

Many returnees have expressed the need to connect with others who have experienced similar trauma. A community of returnees has been established, where those from all walks of life can meet and share their experiences. These meetings provide a safe space for individuals who understand each other's struggles. While some returnees may not feel ready to join, the support system respects their wishes and allows them to decide what is best for their own healing process.

Time and Trauma: The Difference Between Releases

There is a marked difference in the experiences of returnees from various release agreements. The amount of time spent in captivity greatly affects both the physical and emotional scars that remain. As each situation is unique, the support system adapts to the changing needs of the returnees, recognizing that the journey of healing is complex and personal. Many captives share the sentiment that true recovery will only be possible once everyone has returned home, highlighting a sense of commitment to bring all victims of captivity back.

From Solitude to Society: The Challenge of Transition

The sudden transition from captivity to society can be jarring. Many returnees face difficulties adjusting to life outside of isolation. “A traumatic experience without companionship makes coping more complex,” explains Or Tzubari. For those who experienced captivity together, the shared bond provides a sense of community and solidarity, making the transition slightly easier. Support teams continue to assist both the returnees and their families, helping them cope with the evolving emotional and practical challenges they face during this process.