shavim
Prevention of PTSD in reservists
“Shavim saved my life .”
Rafael, 32, reservist, after 320 days in Gaza.
Shavim’s mission is to strengthen the mental and physical resilience of both reservists andtheir families.
The need
The ongoing war has placed many reservists at a heightened risk of trauma and stress-related conditions. The transition back to civilian life is often a difficult process, as many reservists encounter emotional and psychological challenges along the way.
Israel has observed a 70% increase in PTSD diagnoses since the beginning of the war, with over 50’000 new patients. Of the entire Israeli population 20% show symptoms of post traumatic stress.
What is SHAVIM?
THE SHAVIM PROGRAM
The Shavim project is led by the Aviram Foundation, founded by Ziv Aviram, co-founder of «Mobileye» and Orcam technologist. The project provides group therapy sessions designed to offer critical psychological support.
The program focuses on reservists identified as “a step away from trauma”—those experiencing, or at risk of experiencing adjustment difficulties after their reserve service.
Shavim’s mission is to strengthen the mental and physical resilience of both the reservist and their families. By equipping participants with the tools needed for a smooth transition back into community life, the program aims to prevent the onset of long-term psychological conditions. In doing so, it mitigates the widespread impact these disorders can have on individuals, families, and communities.
The program operates one day a week for eight weeks per group, bringing together groups of reservists for a full day in therapy centers designed to support recovery and adaptation through nature-based and therapeutic activities.