The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reported a significant increase in soldiers experiencing psychological trauma, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. This surge has prompted the Israeli Defense Ministry to seek innovative treatments and support systems to address the mental health crisis among its troops.

The Escalating Mental Health Crisis

Since the onset of the conflict, the IDF has faced unprecedented challenges in managing the mental health of its personnel. As of early 2025, over 15,000 soldiers and security personnel have been wounded, with approximately 7,500 grappling with psychological trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. This represents a substantial portion of the total casualties, highlighting the profound impact of the conflict on mental health.

Innovative Treatment: Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)

In response to the escalating mental health crisis, the Israeli Defense Ministry has approved the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) as a third-line treatment for PTSD. SGB is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the sympathetic nervous system to alleviate symptoms associated with PTSD. The treatment has shown promise in providing rapid relief, with a reported 75% clinical success rate based on a decrease in PTSD symptom severity scores.

Stella Israel, a subsidiary of Stella Global, has been at the forefront of implementing SGB in Israel. Since mid-2022, over 700 individuals have received the treatment, with a significant increase in the number of procedures performed in recent months. The treatment is offered at hospitals in Tel Aviv and Haifa, with efforts to make it accessible to a broader population, including reservists and victims of terrorist attacks.

Community Support Initiatives

Beyond medical treatments, community support plays a crucial role in the recovery process. Organizations like Derech Ami have established specialized programs to assist returning soldiers. These programs focus on education, psychological support, and community reintegration, aiming to equip veterans with tools for emotional resilience and a structured environment to help them reintegrate into daily life. Since its inception, the program has assisted approximately 80 returning soldiers, offering weekly sessions that include empowering content and emotional resilience training.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the promising results of SGB and community support programs, challenges remain. The Israeli healthcare system faces difficulties in meeting the growing demand for mental health services, with long waiting lists and limited resources. Additionally, cultural factors and societal attitudes towards mental health may influence the willingness of soldiers to seek help. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including public education, policy reforms, and continued investment in mental health services.

Implications for U.S. Military Mental Health Strategies

The experiences of the IDF offer valuable insights for the U.S. military in addressing PTSD among service members. The integration of innovative treatments like SGB, coupled with comprehensive community support systems, could enhance the effectiveness of mental health care within the U.S. Armed Forces. Additionally, the emphasis on rapid intervention and the reduction of treatment-related barriers are strategies that could be adapted to improve mental health outcomes for U.S. service members.

What is the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) procedure?

The Stellate Ganglion block (SGB) is a minimally invasive treatment that targets the sympathetic nervous system to alleviate symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It involves the injection of a local anesthetic near the stellate ganglion, a collection of nerves in the neck, to reduce hyperarousal and other PTSD symptoms.

How effective is SGB in treating PTSD?

Clinical studies have shown that SGB can provide rapid relief from PTSD symptoms, with a reported success rate of over 75% in reducing symptom severity. This makes it a promising option for individuals seeking alternative treatments for PTSD.

Is SGB treatment available in Israel?

Yes, SGB treatment is available in Israel. In December 2024, the Israeli Ministry of Defense approved the procedure as a subsidized treatment for trauma, marking a notable advancement in mental health care for soldiers and civilians affected by PTSD.The first patient received the treatment under full government funding in early 2025. ([eraseptsdnow.org](https://www.eraseptsdnow.org/blog/historic-breakthrough-ministry-of-defense-approves-sgb-treatment-for-trauma-in-israel?utm_source=openai))

what is the role of community support programs like Derech Ami?

Community support programs, such as Derech Ami, play a crucial role in the recovery process for returning soldiers.These programs focus on education, psychological support, and community reintegration, aiming to equip veterans with tools for emotional resilience and a structured environment to help them reintegrate into daily life. Since its inception, the programme has assisted approximately 80 returning soldiers, offering weekly sessions that include empowering content and emotional resilience training. ([eraseptsdnow.org](https://www.eraseptsdnow.org/blog/historic-breakthrough-ministry-of-defense-approves-sgb-treatment-for-trauma-in-israel?utm_source=openai))

What challenges remain in addressing PTSD among Israeli soldiers?

Despite the promising results of SGB and community support programs,challenges remain. The Israeli healthcare system faces difficulties in meeting the growing demand for mental health services, with long waiting lists and limited resources. Additionally, cultural factors and societal attitudes towards mental health may influence the willingness of soldiers to seek help. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including public education, policy reforms, and continued investment in mental health services. ([eraseptsdnow.org](https://www.eraseptsdnow.org/blog/historic-breakthrough-ministry-of-defense-approves-sgb-treatment-for-trauma-in-israel?utm_source=openai))

How can the U.S. military benefit from Israel’s approach to PTSD treatment?

The experiences of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) offer valuable insights for the U.S. military in addressing PTSD among service members. The integration of innovative treatments like SGB, coupled with complete community support systems, could enhance the effectiveness of mental health care within the U.S. Armed Forces.Additionally, the emphasis on rapid intervention and the reduction of treatment-related barriers are strategies that could be adapted to improve mental health outcomes for U.S. service members. ([eraseptsdnow.org](https://www.eraseptsdnow.org/blog/historic-breakthrough-ministry-of-defense-approves-sgb-treatment-for-trauma-in-israel?utm_source=openai))