For the first time: Clalit and Enosh Association inaugurate a dedicated balanced home for adolescents in Netivot

Clalit Health Services and the Enosh Association have inaugurated a first-of-its-kind balanced home for adolescents in Netivot, 'Nitzanim', serving as an alternative to psychiatric hospitalization for ages 12-18. The opening comes amid a 31% increase in mental health emergency room visits among young people in the first half of 2026.

Clalit Health Services, in partnership with the Enosh Association for Mental Health, inaugurated today (Monday) in Netivot a first-of-its-kind dedicated balanced home for adolescents, 'Nitzanim'. The home is intended for Clalit patients from across the country aged 12-18 dealing with acute mental health crises, and serves as an alternative to psychiatric hospitalization. The opening comes against the backdrop of Clalit data indicating a worsening of distress among adolescents: in the first half of 2026, there was a 31% increase in emergency room visits at mental health centers and a 19% increase in the use of anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications, compared to the same period last year. The home, operated by a multi-professional team from Enosh including psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers, offers treatment for up to three months while maintaining academic continuity and family involvement. At the opening ceremony, speeches were given by Dr. Tzachi Ben Zion, Chief Psychiatrist of Clalit Southern District, Dr. Hila Hadas CEO of Enosh, and Hadva Emuna Director of Clalit Southern District, who also addressed the mental health challenges following the October 7 massacre.