Ichilov and 'Lema'anchem' Launch Early Trauma Intervention Center for Security Personnel and Families

Following the traumatic events of October 7 and the Iron Swords war, there has been a sharp increase in individuals suffering from trauma and post-traumatic stress, with about 26,000 new war casualties since October 7, approximately 65% of whom face mental health challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, or adjustment difficulties. In response to this long-term national challenge, Ichilov Medical Center and the nonprofit organization 'Lema'anchem' have signed an agreement to establish a center for early trauma intervention. This center will expand Ichilov's existing 'Asif' trauma treatment center and provide free professional mental health care to reservists, security forces personnel, and their families.

The new center will also specifically address the needs of family members, often referred to as 'the invisible wounded,' who bear a significant emotional burden but frequently lack adequate support. Trauma affects entire families, including spouses, parents, siblings, and children, and the center aims to strengthen both individual and family resilience to facilitate a return to normal functioning. The initiative seeks to increase treatment availability and deliver professional intervention promptly during the early stages of trauma, which can reduce the risk of chronic PTSD and improve rehabilitation outcomes.

The signing ceremony included key figures such as Ichilov CEO Professor Eli Sprecher, 'Lema'anchem' founder and chairman Yossi Arbelich, IDF Mental Health Services commander Colonel Dr. Yaakov Rothschild, Health Corporation CEO Shay-Li Spiegelman, Ichilov Psychiatry Division head Dr. Oren Tena, 'Lema'anchem' president Professor Yosef Peres, former Health Ministry director Professor Hazi Levi, and 'Lema'anchem' vice president Dr. Gadi Neumann. The center will operate from 'Lema'anchem' offices and be managed by the professional team of the Asif center under Dr. Roy On and psychologist Racheli Fant, with clinical psychologists and social workers providing short-term focused treatments. Patients requiring more complex or prolonged care will be referred to Ichilov Medical Center to ensure continuity.

Professor Sprecher emphasized the importance of proactive community outreach and addressing the ripple effects of trauma on families, calling the partnership with 'Lema'anchem' a vital step in delivering accessible, barrier-free mental health care. Yossi Arbelich highlighted the urgent need for early intervention to save lives and build resilience among reservists, security personnel, and their families. 'Lema'anchem' is a nonprofit providing free medical guidance and support to tens of thousands annually, assisting with expert consultations and navigating complex medical processes.