Israeli NGOs Warn of Soaring Demand for Combat Trauma Support Among Reservists

Thousands of IDF reservists and combat soldiers returning from years of active duty are facing severe psychological challenges, even without receiving an official post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis. Representatives from specialized NGOs warned during a special panel at the conference organized by Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth about an unprecedented surge in demand for combat processing expeditions, lengthy waiting lists, and a critical lack of state funding.

Overwhelmed Support Systems

Lt. Col. (res.) Lavi Zamir, CEO of the "Bishvil HaMachar" (Path for Tomorrow) association, Dafna Harari, head of the Mitraim unit at the Central School for Training Social Workers and a reserve brigadier general in the IDF Casualty Department, and Raziel Barbi, founder of the "Milhama Al Nefesh" (War for the Soul) forum, participated in the discussion. According to the speakers, instead of competition among the organizations, a close coalition has emerged to cope with the escalating demand for assistance.

Zamir noted that over 350,000 reservists were mobilized during the Swords of Iron war. While pre-war statistics indicated that 13% to 19% of those who served would be recognized as suffering from post-trauma, the actual figure experiencing symptoms is much higher. "The number is greater—35% to 40% will experience post-traumatic symptoms," Zamir said. "This is a silent majority. They do not need to reach the Rehabilitation Department, but rather receive tools from us to return home and function as citizens, parents, and partners."

The waiting lists include fighters, career soldiers, reservists, casualty officers, female spotters, and support personnel. Zamir revealed that while 150 cohorts are scheduled to embark on combat processing expeditions, another 70 groups remain on waiting lists due to capacity constraints. He emphasized that the state must step in and provide institutionalized budgeting through coalition agreements rather than leaving organizations dependent on philanthropy.

The Burden on Families and Society

Raziel Barbi, serving as a reservist company commander in the Givati reconnaissance battalion, described the psychological whiplash soldiers experience when transitioning from active combat zones such as Shejaiya back to civilian life and family responsibilities within weeks. Harari stressed that a soldier's return home with standard military gear does not mark the end of the state's responsibility. The government must coordinate efforts, direct individuals to specialized NGOs, and secure stable financing.

"People are ready to go out for another round and another round with children, families, and careers. We owe it to them. We must remember that this is a war that has lasted for more than three years, and there are unimaginable numbers of wounded in body and soul," Harari stated.

The experts underscored that individuals should not be forced to reach a breaking point before seeking help. Combat processing and release expeditions provide participants with vital tools to prevent emotional collapse, highlighting the critical importance of early intervention and structured state support.