As a result of the war, over 7,200 injured military and security personnel have sought help from the rehabilitation department of the Ministry of Defense. Out of these victims, 95% are reservists under the age of 30. Psychological problems such as difficulty sleeping, anxiety, depression, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder have developed in 30% of the victims.
The head of the rehabilitation department, Limor Lurie, predicts that by the end of the year, the number of new wards will increase to 20 thousand people, with approximately 8,000 requiring psychological, emotional or psychiatric help. To address this growing need for care, the department’s budget has been increased by 1.9 billion shekels from 5.4 billion in 2023 to 7.3 billion this year.
Part of this budget is designated specifically for increasing the availability of psychological and psychiatric care for patients. In addition to therapy services provided by psychiatrists with experience in treating combat-related mental disorders, new rates have been set at 700 shekels per case from the previous offer of 200 shekels from the Ministry of Defense. The department has also recruited over 400 emotional therapists to provide support and care to those affected by injuries and trauma during their service.
In addition to therapy services provided by therapists and psychiatrists
