Four "Lions of the Jordan" female soldiers denied access to mental health officer
Amidst a wave of recent suicides in the IDF, it has emerged that four female soldiers in the "Lions of the Jordan" battalion waited over two and a half months for a mental health consultation. One soldier reported threats from her commander regarding the request. The IDF Spokesperson has launched an investigation into the commanders' conduct.
Four female soldiers in the "Lions of the Jordan" battalion spent months requesting a meeting with a mental health officer (Kaban) without receiving the necessary care. According to reports received by "News 12", the soldiers waited over two and a half months for an appointment, a clear violation of IDF regulations. One of the soldiers, who is currently in a fragile mental state, alleged that she faced shameful treatment from her commander regarding her request.
The IDF Spokesperson stated in response:
"The conduct of the commanders is being examined. An accessible mental health system operates in the brigade. Following the inquiry by 'News 12', these cases are being handled with full seriousness."
This incident comes against the backdrop of a difficult week in which three soldiers took their own lives: a reservist, an intelligence soldier, and a female soldier from the mixed "Bardelas" battalion who had previously requested assistance.
According to one of the soldiers, when she asked to see a mental health officer, her commander threatened that if she intended to use the appointment to seek discharge, they would ensure she would not be able to see one at all.
The IDF further noted that some requests were received recently, while others were cancelled at the soldiers' own request, adding that a dedicated mental health officer is assigned to the company to support the soldiers.
If you or someone close to you is experiencing distress, the "Eran" association provides life-saving psychological first aid 24/7. Assistance is anonymous. To receive support, dial 1201, or contact the center for inquiries from soldiers and their families at *2201. You can also visit the "Eran" website at eran.org.il or contact them via WhatsApp at 052-8451201.
