The tragic story of Shirel Golan highlights the profound impact of trauma on mental health. A woman who survived the Hamas massacre at the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Re'im on Oct. 7, 2023, died by suicide after struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, her family said Sunday. Shirel, who turned 22 on her birthday, was supposed to spend the day celebrating with her family. Instead, she was found lifeless at her home in Porat, near Netanya, according to The Times of Israel.
The aftermath of the festival attack left Shirel deeply affected, and her brother Eyal voiced the family's frustration, accusing the state of failing to provide the necessary support for her emotional and mental struggles. "If the state had taken care of her, none of this would have happened," he stated, expressing the pain of losing his sister not once, but twice—first mentally in October and then physically on her birthday.
Shirel and her partner Adi were among the numerous attendees fleeing the Nova outdoor rave when the chaos erupted. They initially managed to reach a vehicle but had to abandon it when escape became impossible. For hours, they hid under a bush until police officer Remo Salman El-Hozayel arrived to rescue partygoers under fire. Unfortunately, during this harrowing experience, they narrowly avoided getting into another car, whose occupants were subsequently killed or kidnapped by Hamas.
Shirel Golan: A Life Cut Short
In the months following the attack, Shirel developed symptoms of PTSD, including disassociation and withdrawal. Despite being hospitalized twice, she was never officially recognized as a PTSD sufferer, according to her family. Eyal explained how the family tried to support her through this difficult time, stating, "My mother was forced to take early retirement to be next to her daughter. We didn’t move a millimeter from her, and the only time we left her alone was today, and she decided to take her own life."
The family’s grief is compounded by the feeling of helplessness, as Eyal emphasized the urgent need for the state to address mental health issues more effectively to prevent further tragedies. "I lost my sister, but I want to raise a hue and cry so others won’t lose their loved ones," he remarked, expressing a desire for systemic change and greater awareness of the mental health crisis.
Remembering the Nova Music Festival Attack
The Nova music festival was supposed to be a joyous event, a gathering of friends and music lovers. Instead, it turned into a nightmare when Hamas terrorists attacked, leading to chaos and fear. Survivors like Shirel faced unimaginable trauma, and the long-term effects of such experiences can be devastating.
The Israeli Welfare and Social Services Ministry responded to the tragedy by stating they provide assistance to survivors in various forms. They urged those needing emotional or mental support to contact the ministry via a 24-hour hotline or online. PTSD is a challenging condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing traumatic events, and the symptoms can include flashbacks and severe anxiety.
The Impact of Trauma on Mental Health
In February, Prof. Yair Bar-Haim of the National Center for Traumatic Stress and Resilience estimated that up to 30,000 Israelis could develop PTSD from the Oct. 7 attack and subsequent wars, stressing the already strained mental health system. "The system was already clogged before October 7. People had to wait nine months for an appointment with a psychologist," he said.
This highlights a critical issue within the mental health care system, where access to timely support is essential for those affected by trauma. The urgency to address these needs cannot be overstated, as the consequences of neglect can be fatal.
Resources for Mental Health Support
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, it is vital to seek help immediately. Please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "988" to the Crisis Text Line at 741 741, or visit 988lifeline.org for support and resources.
Shirel Golan's story is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of mental health care and the need for systemic change to support those suffering from trauma. Her family’s loss resonates deeply, urging society to take action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Severe Weather Alerts: Central U.S. Braces For Storms And Snow In Las Vegas
FDA Classifies Potato Salad Recall As Class I Due To Allergens
An American Man Arrested In Panama For Allegedly Shooting Protesters
