NefFree Israeli Hotlines (24/7)
ERAN (Emotional First-Aid): 1201 from any Israeli phone. 24/7 trained volunteers, in Hebrew/Arabic/Russian/English/Amharic. Best for: immediate crisis, suicidal thoughts, acute panic. Free, anonymous, no waiting.
SAHAR (sahar.org.il): Chat-based, anonymous, 24/7. Best for: people who can't speak out loud (in public, can't wake family). Volunteers, not therapists. Free.
AI / App-Based Support
Nefesh (nefesh.live): Hebrew-native AI on WhatsApp. CBT/DBT/ACT methods. 45 minutes free, then ₪99-199/month. Best for: between-sessions support, 3am wake-ups, supplementing therapy, people who avoid traditional therapy.
Wysa, Woebot, Replika: English only — not recommended for Hebrew speakers. Headspace, Calm: meditation only, partial Hebrew.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ERAN in Israel?
ERAN is Israel's national emotional first-aid hotline. Free, anonymous, 24/7. Dial 1201 from any Israeli phone.
Are there free mental health resources in Israel?
Yes: ERAN (1201), SAHAR (sahar.org.il), Maayan helplines, Hosen Centers (חוסן), kupot cholim hotlines. Nefesh offers 45 free minutes.
How long is the wait for a psychologist in Israel?
Public health (kupot cholim): typically 2-6 months. Private psychologists: 1-4 weeks but ₪300-600/session. Nefesh fills the gap for immediate support.
Is there a Hebrew CBT app?
Nefesh delivers CBT techniques in Hebrew through WhatsApp conversations and 12 interactive games.
What's the best resource for post-October-7 trauma?
NATAL (the Israel Trauma Coalition), Hosen Centers, military/civilian-specific units at each Hospital. Nefesh has a dedicated reservist track.