A Year of Reflection on the October 7 Attacks: Families Seek Trust and Support
As the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks approaches, discussions surrounding the ongoing challenges faced by survivors and families of abductees are intensifying. The Israeli government has acknowledged the need to restore trust in its institutions, particularly among the families of those affected by the tragedy. With 101 abductees still unaccounted for, the state recognizes that its moral obligation remains unfulfilled as it strives to improve support systems for families and survivors alike.
In the aftermath of the attacks, the Israeli government established the Department of Abductees and Returnees within the Prime Minister's Office. This initiative aims to provide tailored support to families of abductees and returnees, including legal assistance, emotional support, and advocacy. Despite these efforts, many families feel that the state has not adequately addressed their needs, particularly in terms of mental health support for survivors.
One poignant case is that of Shirel Golan, who survived the attack at the Nova Music Festival but struggled with depression and PTSD. Tragically, she took her own life on her 22nd birthday after a year of battling her mental health issues. Her family has expressed frustration with the Israeli health authorities, claiming that support was not proactively offered to survivors like Shirel, who did not actively seek help. This underscores a broader concern regarding the accessibility and effectiveness of mental health services provided to those affected by the attacks.
Mental Health Challenges and the Need for Proactive Support
The emotional toll of the October 7 attacks has been profound, with many survivors suffering from PTSD, survivor's guilt, and anxiety. Despite the establishment of a public mental health assistance program, which offers free therapy to survivors, there are criticisms regarding its bureaucratic nature and the lack of outreach to those in need. Shirel's brother, Eyal, emphasized that while the government has resources available, the system requires individuals to apply for help, leaving many like Shirel without the necessary support.
Survivors and their families are calling for a more proactive approach from the government to identify and assist those struggling with their mental health. Eyal Golan has taken it upon himself to raise awareness about the mental health challenges following the attacks, hoping that sharing his sister's story will encourage others to seek help. The ongoing dialogue around the need for improved support systems reflects a critical moment for Israeli society as it seeks to heal and rebuild trust in its institutions.
