IDF Spokesperson Says Military Expanding Mental Health Capacity Amid Reservist Concerns

Reservists say the Israel Defense Forces is struggling to provide adequate mental health care to thousands of soldiers returning from nearly three years of combat. Many are now traveling abroad to receive treatment from private nonprofits and workshops. The IDF Spokesperson’s Unit responded by saying the military has significantly expanded its services to handle the increased load.

The gap in care has grown since the war began. Regular-service soldiers receive ongoing support, but reservists often get limited help only near the end of their deployments. Military sources serving in the reserves claim that once they become civilians, the military considers its duty fulfilled. This leaves many to navigate bureaucracy and thin support services alone.

Specialists warn that the psychological impact on combat troops is just beginning. Estimates from the IDF and the Defense Ministry suggest tens of thousands of soldiers, mostly reservists, will develop post-traumatic stress disorder. More than 7,000 soldiers have already been officially recognized as having psychological disabilities from their service.

The IDF Medical Corps runs the Ta'atzumot Clinic and the Combat Stress Reaction Unit. Sources say these services have not kept pace with demand while fighting continues. A dangerous trend has emerged where soldiers bypass the military system entirely to seek help from overseas providers. The Ta'atzumot Clinic reports that about 65% of its patients return to service, but critics question if this figure reflects the full picture.

The IDF Spokesperson’s Unit stated that new clinics have opened across Israel. A 24-hour hotline now operates seven days a week. The military said it identifies those who need help through structured debriefing sessions with units right after operational deployments. It does not wait for soldiers to come forward.

The Ta'atzumot Clinic has grown its staff and added occupational therapy. It also created a track for career personnel and an intensive outpatient program. The military stressed that the 65% return-to-service figure covers only patients treated at that specific clinic. The Combat Stress Reaction Unit has seen more than 5,000 new patients. It has kept waiting times short and widened access in northern and southern Israel.

The Medical Corps noted that some services fall under civilian bodies like the Health Ministry. Israeli law generally bars the IDF from treating civilians, except through the Combat Stress Reaction Unit. After almost three years of intensive reserve deployments, the IDF built a framework called the "Service Cycle." It reflects the view that reserve service can affect reservists, their families, and their units throughout the year.

The IDF said it does not oppose releasing data on personnel with combat stress reactions. Such figures are already published and will continue to appear in scientific publications and research. The Medical Corps said periodic patient surveys show most patients are satisfied with the care they receive.