Health and medical care

Finding mental health support through the health system

Start with your health fund and request assessment for suitable care.

3 minutes to read Last checked: 20.10.2026
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Important to know

Tachles Israel is an independent information service, not a government authority. Check binding conditions, eligibility and deadlines with the official source.

Before you start

You do not need an existing diagnosis to seek help. Explain your distress and how it affects daily functioning.

Who is this guide for?

People seeking an initial mental health assessment or treatment.

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Conditions and exceptions

Information about community services in Israel, without diagnosis or treatment selection. For an acute or life-threatening situation, seek urgent emergency-department assessment rather than a routine appointment.

Step by step

The checklist

Checklist view →
Your progress0 of 5 Steps
01

Describe the need and urgency

Note changes in sleep, functioning or emotional wellbeing and how long they have lasted. Seek urgent assessment immediately if the situation is acute.
What should you prepare?

A brief description and previous treatments.

Please note

Do not use a questionnaire to diagnose yourself.

Official informationThis link opens an external website↗
02

Contact your health fund or family doctor

Ask for mental health guidance and assessment for an appropriate service. Check referral requirements for the particular clinic and the patient's age.
What should you prepare?

Membership details and any previous summary.

Please note

Procedures differ between health funds and providers.

Official informationThis link opens an external website↗
03

Check the setting and cost

Distinguish a health fund clinic, an affiliated provider and a subsidised independent therapist. Before external care begins, check payment authorisation and copayments.
What should you prepare?

Provider details and referral.

Please note

Private treatment does not always qualify for reimbursement.

Official informationThis link opens an external website↗
04

Ask about waiting times and interim support

Ask when assessment will take place and whom to contact if your condition worsens meanwhile. Update your doctor when your needs change.
What should you prepare?

Enquiry date and response.

Please note

An administrative enquiry does not replace urgent care.

05

Maintain continuity and follow-up

Record your first appointment and recommended follow-up. Ask how information and documents are shared. Do not stop medication without medical instructions.
What should you prepare?

Summary and follow-up plan.

Please note

A relative is not automatically entitled to your medical information.

Official informationThis link opens an external website↗

Official sources

These links let you check with the responsible authority. The website's verification date does not guarantee that every detail has remained up to date since then.

Frequently asked questions

Must I know whether I need a psychologist or psychiatrist?

No. Start with assessment through your health fund or family doctor, who can direct you according to your needs.

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