Trauma into resilience: New org. supports Israel's frontline workers post-Oct. 7

• Published date: 18 April 2024
• Author: JERUSALEM POST STAFF
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

"Many are suffering without direct exposure to the initial events, carrying the burden of the aftermath," notes the founder of Mashiv Haruach. This organization steps in to offer crucial support to these secondary victims

Upon entering the secluded Metzoke Dragot accommodation complex overlooking the serene Dead Sea, the calming desert landscape and minimalist beauty offer immediate relief.

"The moment you arrive, the tranquility begins to take effect," describes a participant, underscoring the retreat's soothing environment. Participants of the Mashiv Haruach retreat begin to unwind from the intense experiences of the past three months.

Who are the participants of the organization?

The participants are members of the Kibbutz Movement who, since October 7th, have tirelessly supported residents around the Gaza envelope—arranging funerals and aiding families of terror victims, hostages, and evacuees, all while facing secondary trauma themselves.

A recent retreat catered to national Rescue Unit 360 volunteers, who endured the harrowing task of locating and identifying human remains alongside security forces. The program also extends to soldiers and doctors from the Shura base engaged in the grim work of identifying murder victims.

Eyal Kravitz, founder of Mashiv Haruach and a retired navy colonel, encourages participants to take a two-day break to focus on their well-being before resuming their critical roles. Kravitz, feeling constrained by retirement during a time of conflict, was compelled to act. "This is the first war since my retirement, and I felt like a caged lion. I had to do something," he admits.

Mashiv Haruach, relying solely on donations, aims to provide emotional support and resilience tools to these individuals, many of whom suffer from severe anxiety, sleep disturbances, poor appetite, and difficulty concentrating at work.

"We provide a tailored approach to help each group manage their specific challenges," explains Sarit Zohar, a team psychotherapist. Unlike government-sponsored individual treatments, Mashiv Haruach offers a group-oriented approach that addresses the broader spectrum of affected individuals.

A vision to help lower post-traumatic stress

The organization's goal is to prevent future post-traumatic stress, with a vision to support 2,000 participants annually. The full program includes supportive group workshops, follow-up meetings, and referrals to individual care when necessary.

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