What’s happening:
There is a critical shortage of English-speaking mental health professionals in Israel, leaving many immigrants grappling with untreated mental health issues. With no specific research on Anglo youth and adults’ suicide rates, there are indications that English-speaking immigrant communities have been facing rising concerns over the past years.
Why it matters:
Mental health care demands are soaring, yet Israel’s public services are swamped, causing long wait times, particularly for English speakers. The aftermath of COVID and the effects of continuous conflicts require prompt and capable care for at-risk individuals, which is currently insufficient for non-Hebrew speaking patients.
By the numbers:
Dr. Tzvia Seligman from the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center highlighted an “unusually high number of suicides” in recent reports to the Knesset. Alongside other factors, the current crisis as a result of engagement with Hamas escalates stress and anxiety levels, amplifying the need for effective mental health interventions.
The challenge:
Most mental health practitioners are hesitant to work with patients that present suicide risks. This avoidance stems from reported feelings of lacking the proper training or experience to deal with such delicate cases, thus increasing the burden on those few professionals who are qualified and willing to help.
Contrasts in military service outcomes:
Members of the US military often struggle upon returning home due to a lack of understanding and support for PTSD and combat-related stress. Meanwhile, Israeli vets tend to experience lower suicide rates, possibly thanks to community support and positive reintegration processes post-military life.
The “Other Population”:
Attention is also drawn to those who faced mental health struggles even before the recent strife and the abnormal spike in stress from wartime activities – they are a part of an “other population,” often with thoughts of suicide, but without the support system of returning soldiers and lack appropriate care, especially in English.
The bigger picture:
As Israel welcomes more immigrants, the mental healthcare system needs proactive measures to anticipate the needs of newcomers. This translates into increased specific research, enhanced training for mental health professionals, and removing barriers that hinder English-speakers from accessing the care they require.
Bottom line:
Consideration of these mental health challenges is as crucial as the physical defenses of any nation. Ensuring the availability of English-speaking mental health experts and a robust support system for the entire spectrum of at-risk individuals, including new immigrants, may be a preventative measure against an uptick in mental health crises and suicide rates.
Tatya Prochko is a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness and a trauma therapist serving Israel’s Anglo community.
This story was first published on jpost.com.