Finding Freedom from Trauma “Down on The Farm”
The demand for mental health care in Israel has surged, especially among the many IDF soldiers struggling to find freedom from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Therapy is crucial not only for individuals who experienced trauma but also for those who lost loved ones, emergency first responders who witnessed intense suffering, and released hostages.
Recently, an ICEJ delegation visited the Rimon Farm Trauma Therapy Center near Beersheva, which the Christian Embassy is supporting. The unique farm features impressive vineyards, olive orchards, and lush artichoke fields. Here, therapeutic retreats and group therapy sessions offer solace and support to Israelis in urgent need of trauma care, while doing so in a pastoral farm setting.
The ICEJ is presently sponsoring trauma therapy at the farm for two specific groups: residents of Kibbutz Be’eri, where many Israelis were killed or abducted on October 7, and volunteers from United Hatzalah, a nationwide network of paramedics.
Speaking to our group, Rimon Farm Cofounder Nir Amitai highlighted the importance of already preparing trauma care programs even while the battle is yet raging. He noted that Israel’s need for mental health professionals is urgent, and the demand will be here for years to come.
Thus, Rimon Farm has plans to expand, with a goal to receive over 3,000 individuals for therapy in 2024. Some will undergo short-term treatment, while others will need more long-term care. Rimon also aims to set up more therapy farms in the western Negev.
Nir was grateful for the ICEJ’s support, saying: “Thanks to you, we can help people get back to normal life. It’s not a quick process; it’s a journey. We cannot do it alone, and with your support, we are not alone. Words cannot describe what I feel. Thank you so much.”
“At times I feel helpless, but my love for this country runs deep,” responded Doris Lüke, who joined our visit to the Rimon Farm as part of an ICEJ Germany solidarity mission to Israel. “I must bring information back to Germany to awaken fellow Christians.”
—by: Marelinke Van Der Riet ICEJ Operations Executive Assistant
Donate today to assist more displaced Israeli families and other urgent needs arising from the war.