On Wednesday, Sheba Medical Center inaugurated a new psychological treatment facility located in northern Israel, designed specifically for security personnel and their families who may be grappling with trauma.
Mevo’ot HaHermon – Sheba Clinic Overview
Named the Mevo’ot HaHermon – Sheba Clinic, UJA NY Home, this center is positioned at the Mevo’ot HaHermon Rehabilitation Campus at Koach Junction. Established through collaboration with the Cohen Veterans Network (CVN), an organization based in the United States, the clinic has received backing from the UJA-Federation of New York and Friends of the IDF (FIDF). This initiative marks the first of its kind in northern Israel, aiming to extend care and provide new therapeutic avenues for local residents.
Comprehensive Treatment Options
The clinic offers a diverse range of psychological services, focusing not only on individual and group therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but also addressing various other mental health issues. These include anxiety, depression, adjustment problems, grief and loss, sleep disorders, and familial relationship challenges. Notably, the center includes a dedicated support group for the spouses of combat soldiers, recognizing the unique stressors faced by these families.
Addressing Mental Health in a Post-Conflict Environment
Following traumatic events such as the war that escalated in October, the healthcare landscape in Israel has confronted significant challenges, necessitating a holistic approach to treatment. Prof. Amitai Ziv, Director of Sheba’s Integrated Rehabilitation Hospital, emphasized that effective trauma care must be ongoing and accessible, addressing the needs of both the service members and their families. Since the escalation began, Sheba has assumed responsibility for establishing a nationwide support framework in collaboration with various partners, aiming to deliver essential mental health resources where they are most needed.
Community Support and Outreach
The mobilization of the New York community has been instrumental in offering support to northern Israelis. Itzik Shmuli, Director General of the UJA-Federation of New York in Israel, mentioned that their community’s remarkable efforts enabled them to begin assistance immediately as the conflict unfolded, impacting over 100 communities in the region. Since the escalation, UJA has allocated more than $366 million to provide vital support to the people of Israel, reflecting a deep commitment to mutual responsibility and solidarity.
Brig.-Gen. (Res.) Liron Donnell, CEO of FIDF Israel, highlighted the urgent need for mental health services post the traumatic events of October 7. He pointed out that the psychological repercussions of trauma can persist long after service members return home, deeply affecting their families as well. The establishment of the new center in northern Israel is aimed at ensuring that these individuals can access high-quality, professional care closer to home, fostering an environment conducive to healing and support.
In conclusion, the opening of the Mevo’ot HaHermon – Sheba Clinic not only marks a significant milestone in providing mental health services but also reinforces the commitment to supporting the well-being of those who serve their country and their families. The center’s comprehensive approach to treating trauma and related mental health issues represents a vital resource for a community in need.