Inbar Shenfeld, CEO of SAHAR-Online Mental Support, and Maayan Patito, a North American volunteer, discussed the vital work of their text-based mental health support service during the Jerusalem Post podcast Healing Israel: A Nation in Trauma.
Founded 25 years ago, SAHAR provides anonymous, immediate emotional support in Hebrew and Arabic for those feeling suicidal or distressed.
Shenfeld described it as “the ER of mental support,” emphasizing their role as the first responders offering immediate help. SAHAR operates three units: reactive 24/7 one-on-one chats in Hebrew and Arabic; proactive- Outreach Patrol Unit that monitors distress posts in online forums, social media platforms, and chat sites daily; and self-help resources. Since October 7, demand has dramatically increased.
Before that date, the chat was open 11 hours daily; now, it’s 24/7,” Shenfeld said, noting the organization’s volunteer numbers grew from 280 to 400, with a 50% rise in contacts for 2024 compared to last year.
Volunteers serve as lifelines during periods of acute trauma and societal stress.
Patito, based in Austin, Texas, recalled her intensive three-and-a-half-month training, calling it “one of the most professional courses” she’s undertaken, providing her with the ability to save people’s lives anywhere in the world.
Shenfeld highlighted the ongoing need for financial support and volunteers worldwide, urging, “Every donation, every contribution, every partnership will help us save more lives.”
This article was written in collaboration with SAHAR.