“You Never Know How Strong You Are Until Being Strong is Your Only Choice”: Adolescents in a Continuous Stressful War Situation

The study examines the experiences of adolescents during the prolonged stressful Iron Swords war, and focuses on resilience, post‑traumatic growth and uncovering hidden talents ‑ adaptive behaviors in contexts of prolonged adversity. Previous studies primarily focused on vulnerability. Adolescence is characterized by cognitive and emotional plasticity. We examine how adolescents navigate trauma, not only surviving, but actively transforming their challenges into opportunities for growth and self‑discovery. Semi‑structured interviews were conducted with 26 adolescents aged 12–17, from war‑affected areas. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to capture the nuanced experiences expressed in their narratives. Adolescents facing prolonged trauma reported emotional vulnerability, while also demonstrating remarkable adaptability and growth, self‑confidence, emotional maturity, and discovering ‘hidden talents’. They have become more attuned to the needs of their surroundings, and found ways to help where needed. They expressed pride in their ability to cope, improvements in their self‑esteem, greater courage, self‑discipline, self‑ capitalization and growing autonomy. Thus, adversity became a mirror accentuating their inner potential, revealing strengths they might have otherwise not noticed. Structured routines, meaningful activities, and social and community support also play crucial roles in fostering resilience and mitigating chronic stress. Acknowledging their strengths and supporting their resilience is essential for fostering long‑term recovery and continuous development. Targeting and adapting interventions considering adolescents’ needs, preferences and barriers, as well as their wisdom, will increase ability adolescents’ ability to utilize their inner and support resources, and to nurture their capacities.