shavim
Prevention of PTSD in IDF 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 put many IDF reservists at increased risk for trauma and stress-related disorders. The transition from military service back into civilian life is often a difficult process, as many reservists reach their emotional and psychological limits.
According to the Department of Rehabilitation of the Ministry of Defense, more than 50,000 soldiers are expected to suffer from PTSD by 2030. However, many reservists either do not qualify for formal assistance or avoid seeking official help.
What is SHAVIM?
The Shavim project is led by the Aviram Foundation, founded by Ziv Aviram, co-founder of Mobileye and Orcam technologist. The project offers group therapy, an important form of psychological support. The program focuses on reservists who have been identified as “one step removed from trauma” – those who are at risk of having adjustment difficulties after reserve service.
Shavim’s mission is to strengthen the mental and physical resilience of both reservists and their families. By teaching behavioral methods necessary for a smooth transition back into everyday life, the program aims to prevent the onset of long-term mental illness. In this way, it reduces the far-reaching impact that these disorders can have on individuals, families and communities.
The program takes place once a week for eight weeks and brings groups of IDF reservists together for a full day at several therapy centers that promote healing through nature-based and therapeutic activities.
