New Community Established to Support Female Veterans Coping with PTSD
Data from the Knesset reveals that women submitted 11 percent of military trauma claims. In response, a new community named Yahalomot has been established to support female veterans coping with PTSD.
Roughly 11 percent of all applications for recognition of psychological trauma resulting from military service were submitted by women, according to data from the Knesset Research and Information Center.
Data indicates that out of 6,410 mental health-related claims filed through December 2024, approximately 11 percent came from female service members. Meanwhile, figures released by the Rehabilitation Department at the Ministry of Defense show that since the outbreak of the war, around 30,000 wounded soldiers and security personnel have been admitted to the department, with women comprising roughly 8 percent of them. Approximately 63 percent of all newly admitted individuals are dealing with mental health injuries.
Against this backdrop, the Combat Diamonds Forum, operating under the 'Diamonds for Life' association, is launching 'Yahalomot'—a dedicated community for women coping with post-traumatic stress disorder following military service. The community will be led by Shir Schneerson, a combat trauma survivor and therapeutic dog handler.
«We are not just our injury. Each of us has capabilities, skills, and dreams, and even after trauma, we deserve a place to grow and develop,» Schneerson stated. «Yahalomot is designed to be a home where women who understand one another can find support, meaning, and the strength to move forward.»
The community caters to women recognized by the Rehabilitation Department, those currently undergoing recognition proceedings, and women dealing with combat stress reactions. Planned activities include group meetings, workshops, guidance toward professional services, and initiatives promoting employment integration.
Nadav Virsh, chairman of the Combat Diamonds Forum, explained that establishing the community stems from the necessity for tailored responses to women facing psychological combat injuries. The initiative aims to create a safe space where female veterans do not have to explain themselves or cope in isolation, enabling them to rebuild their lives.
