Ichilov Hospital and 'Lemaanchem' Launch Free Early Trauma Intervention Center Amid Mental Health Crisis

In response to the rising mental health crisis following the October 7 events and Operation Iron Swords, Ichilov Medical Center and the nonprofit organization 'Lemaanchem' have signed an agreement to establish a free center for early intervention in psychological trauma. Since October 7, approximately 26,000 war casualties have been added, with about 65% experiencing mental distress such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or adjustment difficulties. The new center will expand Ichilov's existing 'Asif' trauma treatment center and provide professional mental health care at no cost to reservists, security personnel, and their families, including the often-overlooked "invisible wounded" family members who bear significant emotional burdens.

The center aims to strengthen individual and family resilience and facilitate a return to normal functioning by offering early professional intervention, which can reduce the risk of chronic PTSD and improve recovery outcomes. It will operate from the offices of 'Lemaanchem' and be managed by the professional team of the Asif center, led by Dr. Roy On and psychologist Racheli Pent. Services will include focused, short-term treatments by clinical psychologists and social workers, with a professional triage system ensuring rapid response. Patients requiring more complex or prolonged care will be referred to Ichilov Medical Center to maintain continuity of treatment.

The signing ceremony included key figures such as Ichilov CEO Prof. Eli Sprecher, Lemaanchem founder Yossi Arbelich, IDF Mental Health Services commander Col. Dr. Yaakov Rothschild, and former Health Ministry director Prof. Hazi Levi. Prof. Sprecher emphasized the hospital's responsibility to proactively reach out to the community and address the ripple effects of trauma on families. Arbelich highlighted the urgent need for early mental health support for reservists, security forces, and their families, noting that early intervention saves lives and builds resilience.

'Lemaanchem' is a nonprofit providing free medical guidance and support, handling tens of thousands of cases annually with senior medical experts. This partnership represents a significant step in addressing the national mental health emergency caused by recent conflicts and trauma exposure in Israel.