Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but it can also come with its share of challenges. The stress of adapting to a new culture, language, and environment can take a toll on anyone’s mental health. If you’ve recently arrived in Israel and are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just in need of someone to talk to, it’s important to know that support is available. The mental health services in Israel are comprehensive and accessible, and there are options for every need and budget. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential mental health resources that can help you and your family navigate your new life in Israel with ease.
Public Mental Health Services: Health Funds (Kupot Holim)
In Israel, everyone is entitled to healthcare through one of the country’s four health funds, or kupot holim: Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, and Leumit. These funds offer mental health services as part of the standard healthcare package, which is great news for newcomers who want access to affordable care.
How Does It Work?
When you register with a health fund, you’ll have access to a range of services, including appointments with psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health concern, you can either see a general practitioner first (who may refer you to a specialist) or go directly to a mental health professional within your health fund network.
What’s Covered?
Most mental health services, including therapy and psychiatric evaluations, are subsidized. However, the level of coverage can vary depending on your health fund and the specific treatment you require. Generally speaking, you will pay a small co-payment for each session, and some services may require a referral from your GP. If you need medication, psychiatric services will help you access prescriptions that are partially covered by your health plan.
Example:
If you’re with Clalit Health Services, you can visit their mental health clinics — known as Merkaz Briut HaNefesh — which are spread across the country. These clinics offer a range of services, from individual therapy to group sessions, and can be a great starting point if you’re looking for affordable, subsidized care.
Private Therapy Options
While the public mental health system in Israel offers a lot of valuable services, some people prefer private therapy for more personalized attention, shorter wait times, or the ability to choose a therapist who speaks their language fluently. Private therapy is widely available for those who prefer or need this route.
Finding an English-Speaking Therapist
For many newcomers, finding a therapist who speaks their native language is a top priority. The good news is that Israel has a large number of English-speaking therapists, particularly in major cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa. Websites such as Get Help Israel (GHI) or Therapy Route offer directories of licensed mental health professionals who cater to English-speaking clients.
Costs and Insurance
Private therapy typically costs between 250 to 400 shekels per session, though prices can vary depending on the therapist’s qualifications and location. Some private therapists may also offer a sliding scale based on your income, so don’t hesitate to ask about financial assistance. If you have private health insurance in addition to your kupat holim coverage, check with your provider to see if they offer any reimbursements for private therapy sessions.
Example:
Let’s say you’re living in Tel Aviv and feel more comfortable speaking English during therapy sessions. You could use the Get Help Israel directory to find an English-speaking therapist near you. After filtering for location and language, you might find a therapist with experience in helping new immigrants adjust to life in Israel.
Crisis Support and Helplines
In moments of crisis, having someone to talk to right away can be crucial. Israel offers several helplines that provide immediate emotional support, many of which operate 24/7 and cater to different languages, including English.
ERAN: Emotional First Aid
ERAN (Emotional First Aid by Telephone and Internet) is one of Israel’s most well-known helplines, offering confidential emotional support through phone, chat, and email. They provide services in multiple languages, including English, and are available around the clock. Whether you’re experiencing a panic attack, suicidal thoughts, or simply need someone to listen, ERAN is a lifeline for many people in distress.
- Phone: 1201 (Available 24/7)
- Website: www.eran.org.il
SAHAR: Online Emotional Support
SAHAR is another fantastic resource, offering anonymous, online emotional support primarily through chat services. While SAHAR specializes in helping individuals with depression and anxiety, they are also available to anyone who needs someone to talk to. Like ERAN, they offer services in both Hebrew and English, making it accessible for newcomers.
- Website: www.sahar.org.il
Example:
Imagine you’re having a particularly tough night, feeling deeply homesick and anxious about your new life in Israel. You can call ERAN at 1201 and speak to someone in English within minutes. Having this immediate connection can provide significant relief and reassurance when mental health challenges feel overwhelming.
Conclusion
Adapting to life in a new country like Israel can be both thrilling and stressful, and it’s completely normal to need some extra support along the way. Fortunately, Israel offers a wide range of mental health services, from public health fund coverage to private therapy and crisis helplines. Whether you’re looking for long-term therapy or immediate emotional support, there’s a resource out there for you. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it — mental health is just as important as physical health, and investing in your well-being will make your transition to life in Israel much smoother.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reaching out to a professional or helpline can make a world of difference as you settle into your new home.