Israel in Worst-Ever Mental Health Crisis Amid Ongoing War, Says Minister
Eleven months after the start of the war, the country is in the midst of its worst-ever mental health crisis, Health Minister Uriel Buso said at the Enosh Mental Health 2024 Conference in Tel Aviv on Wednesday, September 4.
Buso announced that because “our reality has changed,” ministry assistance to HMOs to treat mental health issues will double to about NIS 600 million ($162 million) in 2025.
“We are experiencing the largest mental health event the state has known since its establishment,” Buso said. “A crisis that requires us, as a state and a society, to change perceptions and upgrade the public mental health system.”
He added that the ministry “has to focus on actions that create resilience.” Dr. Hilla Hadas, CEO of Enosh, organized the one-day conference because of the national emergency situation.
A broad swath of experts, including representatives from academia, government ministries, local authorities, the IDF, philanthropy, and mental health organizations, focused on the current state of mental health and well-being against the backdrop of the war, along with the urgent need to strengthen the mental health system in Israel.
“Today, mental health is the most important issue in the healthcare system,” said Moshe Bar Siman-Tov, Director-General of the Health Ministry. (TOI /VFI News)
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” - Matthew 11:28-29