From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Over 7,000 injured in fighting since October 7
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleRenee Ghert-Zand is the health reporter and a feature writer for The Times of Israel.
Since October 7, 7,209 newly wounded military personnel have entered the Defense Ministry’s rehabilitation system, according to official numbers showing high numbers of mental health issues.
Ninety-five percent of them are men under the age of 30 serving in the IDF reserves.
Thirty percent of the newly wounded, 2,111 individuals, developed mental health issues of various kinds. For 60%, the psychic wound was their primary injury.
The Defense Ministry estimates that by the end of 2024, there will be 20,000 newly wounded members of the military from this war. Some 8,000, or 40%, will face psychiatric challenges, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment and communication difficulties, and psychotic conditions.
The weeks between Passover and Israeli Memorial Day are generally difficult for military veterans, especially those with mental wounds.
The Defense Ministry’s regular support and treatment programs are being expanded for wounded soldiers and their families during this period. The ministry also requests that family members and friends be especially aware of wounded soldiers’ emotional health at this time and seek help if they notice signs of changed behavior or additional distress.
The Times of Israel Community.