Enduring the tragedy of loss, Israeli families of suicide victims struggle to find a path to life

An in-depth feature on Bishvil Hahayim (Path to Life), an Israeli organization supporting families of suicide victims and working to prevent suicide. Cofounder Ofra Hermesh recounts the loss of her son Assaf 31 years ago, the stigma her family faced, and the organization's work providing therapy and prevention programs. Experts discuss warning signs, risk factors, and the importance of early intervention.

This feature article profiles Bishvil Hahayim (Path to Life), an Israeli voluntary organization founded in 2000 that provides emotional support to families bereaved by suicide and works to prevent suicide. Cofounder Ofra Hermesh shares the story of her son Assaf, who took his own life at age 19 in a field near their Herzliya home 31 years ago. She describes his struggles with fine motor skills, lack of motivation in school, and fear of authority after being called back to the IDF during a mobilization exercise. Hermesh recounts the stigma her family faced, noting that many acquaintances avoided them and that there remain stigmas about suicide victims and their families today. The organization offers group therapy to families, individuals, and siblings. Clinical psychologist Dr. Maya Iohan-Barak, a board member, explains prevention strategies including teaching children to identify stress and ask directly about suicidal thoughts. She notes that suicide is more common among recent immigrants from the former Soviet Union and Ethiopia, and that the elderly have the highest rate. Israel sees 500-550 suicides per year with over 10,000 attempts. The organization's director-general Michal Arcosin brings over 15 years of management experience. The article's narrative voice remains neutral throughout, using direct quotes from sources and factual reporting.