trauma

Seventeen family members of varying degrees of relation were interviewed with informed consent by Dr. Einat Yehene, a rehabilitation psychologist with the Hostage Families Forum Health Division.

Instead of fixating on incomplete statistics, we need to focus on practical reforms that will make a real difference.

“Dror is an umbrella which provides for all of the hostages' social needs: from immediate medical problems to long-term rehabilitation,” Ben Hur said. 

“Individuals with ASD are particularly vulnerable during crises due to heightened past stress and trauma,” Inbal Millo David explained.

The Jewish Agency’s Youth Futures program is now expanding to provide much-needed support to at-risk youths, as the war has amplified many of their challenges and traumatized children across Israel.

While the Israeli public demonstrates extraordinary solidarity, we must ensure that the state does more.

We must work to leave behind our trauma, and focus on new beginnings. In doing so, we grow together and add greater meaning to our lives. 

The mission is to craft programs for Israelis grappling with trauma and disability, providing them with the tools to heal through nature, wildlife, and surfing.

There is a shortage of rehabilitation and mental health professionals in Israel, Yehudai said, and it is even more acutely felt in the North. 

"Until all of them return, there will be no full rehabilitation for either them or the public. The psychological scars will persist."