170 thousand soldiers in Israel applied to the Ministry to get psychological treatment

Psychological Toll of conflict: A Growing Need for Support

the recent escalation of conflict has taken a heavy toll not only on human life but also on the mental well-being of those involved. In the Gaza Strip,over 61,000 Palestinians have tragically lost their lives as October 7,2023.

On the Israeli side, the immense strain on soldiers participating in the conflict has become increasingly apparent.The Israeli ministry of Defense launched a program a month and a half ago to provide psychotherapy for soldiers, but the demand has far exceeded expectations. Applications have soared to 170,000, underscoring the urgent need for mental health services.

Meeting a Growing Demand

Many substitute soldiers deployed in the Gaza Strip are actively seeking psychological treatment, facing difficulty finding readily available therapists. One report highlighted the challenges these soldiers face in securing the support they need: “They have difficulty in meeting the demand.”

The Israeli Defense Ministry is working to address this critical shortage. Last week, the Ministry announced the inclusion of 150 therapists in the program, aiming to cater to the intense demand. Remote and group therapy options have also been implemented to reach more soldiers.

This surge in demand for mental health services reflects a crucial reality: the invisible wounds of war can be just as devastating as the physical ones. Providing accessible and thorough psychological support for both civilians and soldiers is essential to healing and rebuilding in the aftermath of conflict.

what steps can societies take to effectively address the stigma surrounding mental health, especially within communities affected by prolonged conflict?

The Psychological Toll of Conflict: An Interview with Dr. Eva Levinsky,Psychoanalyst and Professor of Psychology

Dr. Eva Levinsky, a renowned psychoanalyst and professor of psychology, shares her expertise on the psychological impacts of conflict and the urgent need for mental health support, particularly in the context of the recent escalations in the Gaza Strip.

Dr. Levinsky, Thank you for joining us today. Let’s delve right in. The recent escalations in the Gaza Strip have had devastating consequences, with over 61,000 Palestinian lives lost as of October 7, 2023. What psychological impacts do these conflicts have on civilians and soldiers alike?

Dr. Eva Levinsky: Thank you.It’s crucial to understand that the psychological impacts of conflict are profound and far-reaching. Civilians, particularly those in areas affected by violence, often experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and even complex trauma. For soldiers, they may grapple with guilt, shame, and grief, along with PTSD, all of which can manifest as physical symptoms, substance abuse, and isolation.

Considering the high demand for mental health services in Israel, with over 170,000 applications from soldiers, why is it challenging for soldiers to access psychological support?

Dr. Eva Levinsky: Stigma is a significant barrier. Many soldiers may feel that seeking help is a sign of weakness or could negatively impact thier careers. They may also struggle logistically, with lack of time, inconvenient locations, or difficulties in their transition back to civilian life. Additionally,the sudden increase in demand has temporarily overwhelmed the system.

The Israeli Defense Ministry has been working to address these challenges, such as adding 150 therapists and implementing remote and group therapy options. How effective can these measures be, and what more can be done?

Dr. eva Levinsky: These measures are commendable and should certainly help alleviate the current strain.Though, it’s critically important to ensure the added therapists are properly trained in working with trauma caused by conflict. Group therapy can be beneficial, but it’s crucial to consider individual therapy options as well. Pre- and post-deployment screenings could also help identify those at risk and provide early interventions. Lastly, it’s vital to tackle the stigma issue through education and open dialog.

What advice would you give to individuals struggling psychologically in the aftermath of conflict, both civilians and soldiers?

dr. Eva levinsky: It’s important to remember that what they’re feeling is normal under the circumstances. They should seek help when they need it, and not feel guilty for doing so. Friends and family can play a crucial role in supporting them, but professional help is often necessary. It’s vital to be patient with oneself and others, as healing takes time.

Dr. Levinsky, Your insights are invaluable. In your opinion, what steps can be taken to ensure mental health support is prioritized and accessible in the aftermath of conflict?

Dr. Eva levinsky: Frist, we need to integrate mental health into overall conflict resolution strategies. Early screening, interventions, and long-term support should be provided.Policy changes can help ensure mental health is a priority, but stigma reduction is also crucial. We must foster a culture where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.

Thank you, Dr.Levinsky, for your time and expertise. Your insights provide valuable perspectives on an often overlooked aspect of conflict’s aftermath.