Shirel Golan, a victim of the October 7, 2023 Hamas massacre, tragically took her own life, prompting her family to blame the Israeli government for insufficient support for trauma survivors. Her brother, Eyal, recalls her vibrant spirit and emphasizes the need for better mental health resources. He advocates for open conversations about suicide and urges the state to proactively assist those affected, highlighting the growing crisis of post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors.
Tragic Loss: Shirel Golan’s Struggle After the Hamas Attack
Shirel Golan, a survivor of the horrific Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023, tragically took her own life, leaving her family devastated. They hold the Israeli state accountable for failing to adequately support the traumatized survivors of that fateful day.
Describing his sister, Eyal Golan reflects on Shirel’s vibrant spirit: “She had a beautiful smile, loved dancing, and was full of life.” However, he now speaks in the past tense, as Shirel is no longer with them. On her 22nd birthday, just a year after the attacks, she succumbed to her inner turmoil. “She isolated herself, preferring to stay in her room and distancing from family. It was like someone dimmed her light,” Eyal shares with deep sorrow.
The Aftermath: Seeking Help and Breaking the Silence
Shirel’s family believes that the lack of sufficient assistance from the Israeli government contributed to her tragic decision. They emphasize that survivors of the October 7 attacks deserve more comprehensive support to process their trauma and grief.
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Eyal Golan expresses his frustration over the bureaucratic hurdles survivors face. “The state needs to be proactive in reaching those affected,” he insists, urging that the onus should not solely fall on families to seek out help. His determination to speak out aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding suicide among survivors, encouraging open conversations in Israel.
As more families like the Golans grapple with the aftermath of the attack, the need for adequate mental health resources becomes increasingly urgent. Experts warn that the nation is facing a growing crisis of post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors, highlighting the inadequacies in current support systems.
In conclusion, Eyal Golan is committed to sharing Shirel’s story, hoping to inspire others to speak up about their struggles. He believes that by breaking the silence, they can foster a more supportive environment for those affected by trauma.