Mental health crisis grips Israeli military with over 85,000 treated

The Israeli military is facing a severe and growing mental health crisis, with over 85,000 soldiers now receiving treatment for psychological disorders linked to the war in Gaza. Tamar Shimoni, deputy head of the Defense Ministry's Rehabilitation Department, disclosed the figures on Sunday, describing the surge from approximately 62,000 cases since October 7, 2023, as "unprecedented."

Overwhelmed therapists and systemic strain

Shimoni stated that the rehabilitation system is under immense strain, with a single therapist now responsible for as many as 750 patients, and even more in some regions. This overwhelming caseload makes it difficult to provide timely care to all personnel in need. She estimated that one-third of Israeli soldiers are now contending with psychological issues directly connected to the events of the ongoing conflict.

Rising suicides and a nationwide psychological crisis

The military's internal crisis is part of a broader national mental health emergency. Israeli media has reported a concerning rise in suicides within the armed forces. Recent reports include a soldier who died by suicide after suffering from post-traumatic stress and a reserve officer from the Givati Brigade who took his own life last week. Official military data from October noted 279 suicide attempts over an 18-month period, resulting in 36 deaths. In November, the newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth warned of a "widespread psychological crisis" in Israel, citing nearly two million people needing mental health support.

The context of the ongoing Gaza conflict

This mental health emergency unfolds against the backdrop of a devastating military campaign. Since October 2023, Israel's operations in Gaza have resulted in over 70,000 Palestinian deaths, the majority being women and children, and more than 171,000 injuries, according to figures from local health authorities. The psychological toll on Israeli soldiers, as now detailed by defense officials, adds a new dimension to the war's profound human cost on all sides.