Supporting IDF Reservists with Lifelong Resilience

Addressing Trauma and Offering Lifelong Support for Israel’s Heroes

Having always had deep respect for service men and women, I find myself continuously in awe of the sacrifices made by soldiers, especially combat soldiers. These are individuals who knowingly enter into a profession where the risk of not retiring alive is a constant reality. In many ways, it is the ultimate act of dedication and bravery. And yet, as we face increasingly troubling reports about the psychological toll on Israel’s brave soldiers, particularly the IDF reservists and regular service men and women, the need for a more comprehensive and proactive support system has never been more urgent.

The surge in reservists seeking trauma treatment since the October 7 massacre is startling, yet it is also an alarming sign of the immense psychological toll caused by prolonged combat situations. Lt.-Col. Uzi Bechor, head of the Combat Mental Health Unit for reservist soldiers, revealed that the number of reservists seeking help for trauma had skyrocketed by more than 1,000%, from 270 to 3,000 cases a year. This statistic paints a clear picture of the growing mental health crisis among Israel’s soldiers, and it demands our attention. As we continue to salute their courage and sacrifice, we must also ensure that their psychological well-being is addressed with the same dedication.

War has its consequences. This truth has never been more apparent than in the wake of Israel’s ongoing battles. Trauma-related conditions such as PTSD, depression, and the visible toll of physical symptoms like shaking are no longer just statistics – they are human experiences that demand our empathy and action. The IDF has responded with some initiatives, but the scale of the issue, compounded by the sheer duration and intensity of the current conflict, requires a thoughtful, long-term approach.

Lt.-Col. Bechor’s team is stepping up to offer tailored treatment for these soldiers, but the strain on the system is becoming increasingly evident. The demand for treatment has surged as more reservists, many of whom previously might have hesitated to seek help, are now doing so sooner than ever before. The average time for a soldier to request treatment has dropped from years to just one or two weeks, indicating a profound cultural shift in recognizing trauma as a valid and treatable condition. The fact that more soldiers are now taking the initiative to seek help shows a positive trend, but it also indicates the severity of the psychological wounds that combat veterans carry with them.

While the IDF’s Combat Mental Health Unit is doing remarkable work, the reality is that trauma does not simply go away after a few sessions of treatment. The current treatment structure within the IDF is largely time-bound, with most soldiers receiving care for a limited period – typically between 12 and 15 sessions. While this approach is beneficial in many cases, we must recognize that some soldiers, particularly those who face prolonged exposure to trauma, may require lifelong treatment.

Israel’s responsibility does not end when soldiers leave active service or complete their reserve duties. We must ensure that every soldier, regardless of when they leave active duty, has access to the support they need to heal. The IDF is rightfully addressing the immediate concerns of trauma, but we must think beyond temporary fixes. Providing lifelong, sustainable support systems for these veterans is critical for ensuring that they are not just surviving – but thriving in civilian life after their service.

I have been particularly impressed by the IDF’s recent efforts to evaluate reservists’ mental health status more rigorously. The establishment of a committee to review the eligibility of reservists suffering from severe psychological injuries, such as PTSD, shows a commitment to the long-term well-being of Israel’s military personnel. However, the timing of this initiative – amid the growing number of suicides among soldiers – raises the question: why was not this system put in place earlier?

There is an undeniable need for more robust and accessible mental health care, and it is clear that the military’s current framework is not entirely sufficient. We must also ensure that commanders and soldiers at all levels recognize the importance of seeking help and that they have the tools to identify early warning signs of trauma. The stigma that once surrounded seeking psychological treatment is starting to fade, but there is still much more work to be done.

As a society, Israelis must stand with their soldiers, not just in moments of victory, but throughout their entire journey – before, during, and after their service. The state of Israel has always been a beacon of resilience, but it is important to remember that resilience is not just about military victories or economic success – it is also about the emotional and psychological strength to endure hardships. This is where the concept of renewal comes into play. Just as Israel has continually reinvented itself in response to external threats, it must also renew its commitment to the well-being of its service members.

This is a shared responsibility – both for the government and for the citizens. It is essential that the Israeli public remains aware of the mental health challenges that many of our soldiers face and supports initiatives that provide long-term solutions for these heroes. From charitable organizations to government-led initiatives, we must ensure that the psychological scars of war are not left untreated.

As we honour the service and sacrifice of the IDF’s reservists and regular service members, we must remember that their service does not end when they put down their weapons or leave the battlefield. Many of these soldiers carry invisible wounds that require our attention, care, and unwavering support. It is not enough to praise their courage on the front lines; we must also provide them with the tools they need to heal and lead fulfilling lives once they return home.

Israel’s resilience and renewal are not only found in its defense capabilities, but also in how it treats its warriors once the fighting has stopped. Just as Israel leads in innovation across industries, it must also lead in offering innovative solutions to support the mental health of its soldiers. This is not just a duty – it is a moral imperative. Only through collective action can we ensure that those who have given so much to protect Israel’s future can have a future themselves – one filled with health, hope, and healing.