Reservists Fear Unmet PTSD Care
Military sources warn that mental health services are failing to handle the surge in trauma cases among returning combat troops.
By Dmitri Sokolov ·
Israel's military has engaged in intense combat operations for nearly three years. This sustained conflict is now creating a significant challenge for the nation's healthcare system. Reservists are reporting a growing gap between the number of soldiers seeking help and the resources available to them. The Defense Ministry and the Israel Defense Forces are under pressure to manage this rising demand for mental health support.
The scale of the issue is substantial. Tens of thousands of soldiers, primarily reservists, are expected to develop post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the war. More than 7,000 troops have already been officially recognized with psychological disabilities. These figures come from estimates provided by the IDF and the Defense Ministry's Rehabilitation Department. Specialists warn that the psychological impact is only beginning to surface.
Sources indicate that thousands of reservists are traveling abroad for treatment. They are joining workshops and receiving care from private nonprofit organizations. This trend suggests a reliance on external providers. One source noted that the IDF should have collaborated more closely with these groups. The goal would have been to minimize gaps in diagnosis, oversight, and treatment standards.
Reservists highlight a distinction in support between regular soldiers and reserve personnel. Regular service members receive ongoing assistance. In contrast, reservists often receive limited help only near the end of their deployments. Military sources in the reserves claim that once they return to civilian life, the military considers its duty complete. This leaves many to navigate bureaucracy and thin support services alone.
The IDF Medical Corps operates the Ta'atzumot Clinic and the Combat Stress Reaction Unit. Sources say the capacity of these services has not kept pace with demand. A dangerous trend has emerged where combat troops bypass the military system. They instead go directly to private providers and overseas programs. The Ta'atzumot Clinic reports that about 65% of its patients return to service, but sources question if this reflects the full picture.
The IDF Spokesperson's Unit responded that the military prioritizes mental health care. It stated that capacity and quality have expanded significantly since the war began. New clinics have opened across the country. A 24-hour hotline now operates seven days a week. The military also uses structured debriefing sessions after deployments to identify those who need help.
Regarding the Ta'atzumot Clinic, the IDF said it has added staff and new treatment tracks. These include occupational therapy and an intensive outpatient program. Treatment focuses on rehabilitation and assessing fitness for service. The military clarified that the 65% return rate applies only to clinic patients, not all soldiers with symptoms.
The Combat Stress Reaction Unit has treated over 5,000 new patients. It has widened access in northern and southern Israel. The Medical Corps noted that some services fall under civilian bodies like the Health Ministry. Israeli law generally bars the IDF from treating civilians, except through this specific unit. The military also introduced a framework called the Service Cycle. This recognizes that reserve service can affect families and units throughout the year, not just during mobilization.
Source: The Jerusalem Post
