Ichilov and 'Lema'anchem' Launch Free Early Trauma Intervention Center for Reservists and Families

Following the traumatic events of October 7 and Operation Iron Swords, there has been a sharp increase in individuals suffering from trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with around 26,000 war casualties added since October 7. Approximately 65% of these individuals face mental health challenges including PTSD, anxiety, depression, or adjustment difficulties. In response to this national long-term challenge, Ichilov Medical Center and the nonprofit organization "Lema'anchem" announced on Wednesday the establishment of a new Early Trauma Intervention Center. This center will expand the existing "Asif" trauma treatment center at Ichilov and provide free professional mental health treatment to reservists, security personnel, and their families.

The center will also specifically address the needs of family members, often referred to as "invisible wounded," who bear a significant part of the trauma burden but frequently lack adequate support. Trauma affects the entire family unit, including spouses, parents, siblings, and children. The center aims to strengthen personal and family resilience and assist in returning to normal functioning. The initiative focuses on increasing treatment availability and delivering professional intervention early in the trauma process, which can reduce the risk of chronic PTSD and improve recovery outcomes.

The signing ceremony included key figures such as Ichilov CEO Prof. Eli Sprecher, "Lema'anchem" founder and chairman Yossi Arbelich, IDF Mental Health Services commander Col. Dr. Yaakov Rothschild, and other senior health and organizational leaders. The center will operate from "Lema'anchem" offices and be managed by the professional team from Ichilov's Asif center, led by Dr. Roy On and psychologist Racheli Fant. Services will include short-term focused treatments by clinical psychologists and social workers, with a professional triage system ensuring rapid response. Patients requiring complex or extended care will be referred to Ichilov Medical Center for continued treatment.

Prof. Eli 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 providing accessible, barrier-free mental health care. Yossi Arbelich highlighted the urgent need for early intervention to save lives and strengthen mental resilience among reservists, security forces, and their families. "Lema'anchem" is a nonprofit providing free medical guidance and support, handling tens of thousands of cases annually with senior medical experts to assist patients and families through complex medical processes.