Mental Health on the Frontlines

June 18, 2025 – Since the outbreak of war with Iran in June 2025, Herzog Medical Center has mobilized its nationally recognized mental health teams to respond swiftly to the psychological impact of conflict. From children huddled in bomb shelters to young adults with nowhere to turn—Herzog is providing trauma-informed care when and where it’s needed most.

At the heart of this emergency response are two vital programs:

Metiv Kids: Emergency Mental Health for Families
Developed by Herzog’s trauma experts, Metiv Kids provides culturally adapted psychological support to children and parents across Israel during times of war and crisis. In response to Operation Rising Lion, the program launched age-specific WhatsApp groups for parents, offering daily calming tips, illustrated tools, and direct expert guidance. Zoom trainings for educators, therapeutic content on social media, and online clinical care have helped families cope with the emotional toll of prolonged uncertainty—even under fire.

Young Adults at Risk Mental Health Clinic (Ages 18–25)
This pioneering clinic serves highly vulnerable young adults—many of whom live without a stable family or social framework. Clients include dropouts from the ultra-Orthodox community, survivors of sexual abuse, and young people still reeling from the Nova Music Festival massacre. With the outbreak of war, the clinic expanded its services to offer flexible, remote therapy for those experiencing retraumatization, isolation, or emotional collapse. Emergency intakes, targeted support for reservists, and family conflict mediation have helped restore safety and hope for dozens of young lives on the brink. Since October 7th, the Clinic has treated 350 and 400 young adults a year.

Why It Matters
These are not ordinary times. Yet Herzog’s commitment to safeguarding mental health—especially among children, youth, and at-risk young adults—remains unwavering. Our teams are working around the clock to deliver care that is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and grounded in clinical excellence.

Join Us
Your support helps us continue this life-saving work. Together, we can strengthen Israel’s emotional resilience—one child, one young adult, one family at a time.