The recent war has had a significant impact on the health of Israelis, particularly those with chronic diseases and evacuated citizens who lack access to routine care. Experts are concerned about the long-term consequences of this war on the mental and physical health of Israelis, particularly children and vulnerable populations. A recent survey found disturbing trends among evacuees, including changes in health conditions, eating habits, and physical activity levels.
The experts also raise concerns about the neglect of routine health screenings and preventative measures during times of crisis. Decreased compliance with these tests can lead to late-stage disease detection and other health complications. Prof. Hagai Levin emphasizes the need for individualized and community-based rehabilitation programs, as well as alternative therapies like art, sports, and nature therapy.
Prof. Nachman Ash, the chairman of the National Institute for Health Policy Research and former Director General of the Ministry of Health, stresses the importance of a strategic plan to enhance the resilience and preparedness of the public for future challenges. He notes that urgent mental health treatment is necessary for the Israeli population due to a severe shortage of therapists and a long process to address this issue. Prof. Haim Bitterman, the scientific director of the Institute, highlights this overwhelming need for mental health services in a system that already had room for improvement.
The Ministry of Health is working on a comprehensive plan to address the mental and physical health needs of Israelis during challenging times. This plan focuses on resilience, nutrition, physical activity, smoking prevention, community collaboration and multi-sectoral involvement in finding solutions encouraging individuals to take small steps towards prioritizing their wellbeing.
In conclusion, it is vital to mitigate the negative effects of wars on public health by promoting overall wellness in Israelis through comprehensive plans that focus on resilience
