In the midst of an intense and demanding routine, the organization took part in a special day for the Southern District of the Israel Prison Service. Since October 7, the personnel have been engaged in the detention of terrorists, flotilla participants, and other security prisoners. They chose to pause their routine for a moment and dedicate time to strengthening, team cohesion, and deepening awareness of mental health — a day they aptly named “Protective Heart Day.”
The event opened with a general lecture by Eitan Feldman, the organization’s Operations Manager, who presented our activities in depth. Beyond introducing our work, the lecture also addressed practical questions: how to approach someone in emotional distress, how to create a dialogue that encourages openness and cooperation, and what should be avoided when aiming to truly support and empower a person to take positive action for themselves.
The program continued with a moving and inspiring talk by S. and A., a couple who chose to share their life journey spanning decades. S., a veteran of the Yom Kippur War, spoke about coping with deep psychological trauma alongside continued meaningful military service, advanced academic studies, and the completion of a doctorate, as well as the decision—many years later—to seek treatment and finally address an untreated wound. A., his wife and lifelong partner from a young age, shared her perspective as a spouse: recognizing the changes, setting boundaries, navigating daily life at home, and the role she assumed over the years — a role her husband often describes as “my rehabilitation department.”
Their clear message was that it is never too late to work on one’s mental well-being, and that the earlier one seeks support, the more beneficial the path becomes. Alongside their personal story, the talk also addressed recognizing signs in others and how we can be attentive to those around us and try to be there for them.
Following the two lectures, an open session for questions and discussion was held with the personnel. The event was both empowering and unifying, and included many volunteers from the organization who were present, connected with the participants, and fostered meaningful human connections.
As part of the day, the organization provided refreshments, and at the conclusion of the event, everyone gathered for a friendly football match.
At the end of the event, the personnel were awarded certificates of appreciation for their service and received shirts from the organization. In return, they presented the organization with specially printed shirts for “Protective Heart Day” and a certificate of appreciation for its work.
The organization extends its heartfelt thanks to ORT Singalovsky Education Campus and its staff for their warm and welcoming hospitality, and especially to Victor Maimon, Elad Rubinov, Avi Saar, Ronen Shamir, and Eitan Barlev, the school principal. The team supported the event with full availability and created a respectful and welcoming atmosphere throughout.
On behalf of HELPTSD, those involved in organizing and leading the event included: Dekel Tzur – CEO, Eitan Feldman – Operations Manager, Tal Basson – PR Manager; members of the support network – Enrico Segre, Ravit Golan, S. and A., and Yael Kliman; event coordinators – Aya Sofer and Noa Vitkovsky; Community and Employment Relations Coordinator – Daniel Bechar; and administration coordinators Hanna Bendik and Romina Stiglitz — all of whom played a significant role behind the scenes.
And of course, our deepest thanks to the dedicated personnel for their trust, openness, and for the privilege of being part of such a meaningful day. The organization will continue to work toward creating safe and supportive spaces.
