As the world continues to witness the impact of conflicts and wars in various regions, one aspect often overlooked is the profound effect they have on personal relationships. In Israel, where the ongoing security concerns have been particularly acute, individuals seeking connection and companionship are navigating unique challenges.
Connections Association: Bringing hearts together virtually
"In the first week of the war, we had a large speed dating event planned, but we had to cancel it," Yael Shapira, CEO of the Connections Association said. The Connections Association is a social enterprise that facilitates relationships through personalized mentoring from volunteer mentors. "However, due to the overwhelming requests we received, we held an online event a week later. We had a record-breaking demand, with over 600 people registered for the evening. Even individuals who were recruited into the reserves and those still on assembly grounds participated. The current situation intensifies the longing for companionship," Shapira explained.
Recognizing the emotional toll the ongoing conflict has taken on singles and couples alike, the Connections Association established a hotline to provide support and guidance. "We have 2,800 registered members in the project. In the first week of the war, we started receiving inquiries and immediately launched the hotline," Shapira explained. Callers are connected with mentors who offer a listening ear and practical advice. The hotline operates from Sundays to Thursdays until 5:00 PM, with WhatsApp messages accepted even after hours.
The inquiries received at the hotline are diverse, reflecting the range of emotions people are experiencing. Shapira elaborated, "We receive a diverse range of requests. For example, we have individuals who have been recruited calling the hotline, sharing their concerns with mentors, and saying things like, 'I may die without leaving anyone behind.' This extreme thought reflects the fear of not having started a family. Another individual expressed, 'I have never felt so single. Everyone around me is in a relationship, calling their wives or girlfriends, and I have no one to call.'"
The Connections Association is not only helping those who feel they are currently unavailable for contact but also individuals who express the need to maintain connections. Shapira added, "In contrast to those who feel they are currently unavailable for contact, there are also individuals who express the need to keep meeting others, to continue receiving dating suggestions, and to maintain connections, as the feeling of loneliness is significantly amplified."
Shirat Malach: Offering guidance for religious and traditional singles
Shirat Malach, a counselor and companion for marriage seekers in Israel's religious-national and traditional sectors, recognized the need for support as well. "I have been a relationship counselor for many years, and at the beginning of the war, I started getting all kinds of private questions, such as 'We just started dating, and he is now in the war,' questions about all kinds of relationships that got stuck in the middle," she said.
Malach and her team expanded their services by creating a hotline platform every night from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. This platform allows individuals to get in touch with coaches and relationship counselors for advice and support.
The inquiries they received were then divided into two main categories. Malach explained, "On the one hand, people who are not in a relationship and feel very alone now and have great anxiety regarding the future, feelings of loneliness and fear. They ask, for example, when it will be possible to go on dates, etc. On the other hand, there are inquiries from people who are in a relationship at various stages, and suddenly everything stops."
Providing advice during such challenging times can be complex, but Malach emphasized that simply having a place where people can talk about their feelings is valuable. She advises individuals to be patient and understand that this period will eventually pass, encouraging them to look at relationships from a longer-term perspective.
If you or someone you know in Israel are seeking support or guidance during these challenging times, you can reach out to: