The mental health of Israelis took center stage at the Knesset Health Committee on Tuesday as lawmakers were told of a sobering 40% rise in calls to crisis and mental health centers over the past year.
While official data indicates no immediate spike in suicides during the war, experts warned of a potential surge as the nation transitions back to normality.
“It is about human life,” said committee chairman MK Yoni Mashriki. “We must reach out to those on the brink, morally and socially.” He praised the addition of funds to the national suicide prevention program but stressed the need for further investment, particularly in Ministry of Education programs.
Miri Cohen, director of government relations and national programs at the Ministry of Health cited data showing approximately 400-500 suicides annually in Israel, alongside 7,000 reported suicide attempts that reach emergency rooms. However, she cautioned that underreporting remains a significant issue, as some suicides are recorded under other causes of death.