Making Aliyah with a Mental Health
A Practical Guide
Mental health conditions are common—affecting millions worldwide—and having one doesn't automatically disqualify you from making Aliyah or thriving in Israel. However, the transition does require careful planning, realistic expectations, and understanding of how Israel's mental health system works.
Can You Make Aliyah with a Mental Health Condition?
The Short Answer: Yes. Having a mental health condition does not prevent you from making Aliyah. Israel accepts immigrants with mental health histories, and you cannot be denied Aliyah solely because of a psychiatric diagnosis.
Important Distinctions:
Well-managed conditions with medication and therapy: generally not an issue
Stable conditions in remission: typically fine
Active, severe, or unstable conditions: may face additional scrutiny
Conditions requiring highly specialized care: research availability first
The Disclosure Question
What You're Required to Disclose:
General health questionnaire on Aliyah application
Medications you're currently taking
Hospitalizations and ongoing treatment
Military service screening (if applicable) requires full psychiatric history
Why Disclosure Matters:
Ensures appropriate medical care upon arrival
Helps with medication continuity
Creates accurate medical record
Disclosure does not prevent Aliyah in most cases
Understanding Israel's Mental Health System
Mental health services are provided through your Kupat Holim (health fund), but coverage differs significantly from many Western countries.
What's Typically Covered:
Psychiatrist appointments (limited)
Basic psychotherapy sessions (very limited)
Hospitalization for mental health crises
Some medications and crisis intervention
What's Often NOT Well-Covered:
Regular ongoing psychotherapy
Specialized treatments (DBT, EMDR, etc.)
English-speaking therapists
Couples or family therapy
Private Mental Health Care:
Psychologists/therapists: 250–500 NIS ($70–140) per session
Psychiatrists: 400–800 NIS ($110–220) per session
English-speaking providers available in major cities
Often have waiting lists and higher demand than supply
Medication Continuity
Before You Leave:
Research if your medications are available in Israel
Get medication list with generic names
Bring 3–6 months supply if possible, in original packaging
Get letters from prescribing doctor explaining medical necessity
Identify alternatives if primary medication unavailable
Upon Arrival:
Register with Kupat Holim immediately
Request psychiatrist appointment (may take 2–4 weeks)
Israeli psychiatrist must approve continuing medications
Be prepared for possible adjustments or Israeli equivalents
Note: Controlled substances (ADHD medications, benzodiazepines) are more restricted and may require specialist approval. Extra documentation is helpful.
Military Service Considerations
For those of draft age, mental health history significantly impacts military service—often resulting in exemption, which many view as a relief.
Conditions Often Resulting in Exemption:
Major depressive disorder (moderate to severe)
Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders
Severe anxiety disorders, PTSD
Eating disorders requiring treatment
History of suicide attempts or serious self-harm
Exemption is common and socially acceptable. It doesn't prevent integration into society or affect most employment. You can volunteer in National Service instead.
The Stress of Aliyah Itself
Making Aliyah is inherently stressful—even for those without mental health conditions.
Common stressors include:
Leaving everything familiar; new language and culture
Loss of support system; identity shifts
Bureaucracy, financial pressures, housing challenges
Social isolation and difficulty making connections
Loneliness common in first year
Protective Factors:
Ensure current stability—don’t make Aliyah during crisis
Have treatment plan and coping strategies in place
Build support: family/friends in Israel, English-speaking provider lined up
Maintain routines that support mental health
Know your warning signs and plan for difficult moments
Finding Mental Health Support in Israel
English-Speaking Therapists:
Available in larger cities (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Modi'in)
Online directories, Nefesh B’Nefesh resources, word of mouth
Online therapy available—can continue with previous therapist remotely
Crisis Resources:
ERAN (Emotional First Aid): crisis hotline 1201, 24/7, multiple languages
Natal: trauma and PTSD support
ENOSH: mental health advocacy and rehabilitation
When Aliyah May Not Be Advisable
Red Flags:
Currently unstable: active suicidal ideation, recent hospitalization, uncontrolled symptoms
Treatment dependencies: highly specialized treatment unavailable in Israel
Insufficient support: no support system, no financial resources for private care
Wrong timing: major life stressors, recent trauma, not personally ready
Recommendation:
Stabilize first, then reconsider Aliyah when you're in a stronger place. It doesn't mean never—just not yet.
Practical Preparation Checklist
6–12 Months Before:
Ensure current stability in treatment
Research Israeli mental health resources and potential providers
Discuss Aliyah with your treatment team
3–6 Months Before:
Get comprehensive documentation from providers
Obtain medication list with generic names; research availability
Develop crisis plan
1–3 Months Before:
Confirm medication supply; get provider letters
Consider temporary online therapy arrangement
Upon Arrival:
Register with Kupat Holim immediately
Schedule psychiatrist appointment; begin search for therapist
Monitor your mental health closely; seek help quickly if struggling
Final Thoughts
Having a mental health condition doesn't mean you can't make Aliyah or won't succeed in Israel. Many people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other conditions live fulfilling lives in Israel.
However, honesty with yourself is crucial. Are you currently stable? Can you handle major stress? Do you have resources for private care? Is your support system sufficient?
If the answer is yes, Aliyah is absolutely possible. If not, it doesn't mean never—just not yet.
Remember: you're not alone. Taking care of your mental health is not weakness. It's okay to delay Aliyah if needed, and it's okay to try and return if it doesn't work. Your wellbeing comes first.
