Overview of the Laboratory’s Mission

Following the events of October 7, 2023, we at the laboratory are working to provide information and assistance to those working with loss, bereavement, trauma and traumatic bereavement. In addition, our earlier descriptions of our role remain valid.. 

Therefore, it is important to note that the unique experiences of loss in Israel are mediated through  differences in culture, religion, language, and other factors. In Israel today, there are numerous organizations involved in providing various forms of bereavement services, including the Ministry of Defense; Yad Lebanim (Parents of Fallen Soldier’s Organization), the Israel Defense Forces (Agaf Hanifgaim– Casualty Department), the Ministry of Social Welfare, and the National Insurance Institute. The establishment of the International Center for Bereavement and Human Resilience marks the first academic research and treatment center with bereavement as its domain of study. An independent research and training center dedicated to providing leadership and direction for bereavement efforts in Israel will help shape national policies for assisting the bereaved, ensure the evolution of appropriate training and research, promote the development and assessment of current intervention strategies, and serve as a respected authority for the various media outlets in the country

In addition to its uniquely Israeli orientation, the Laboratory for the Study of Loss, Bereavement and Human Resilience is concerned with maintaining an international focus, seeking to learn from, as well as to contribute to, the evolving body of knowledge and expertise for this quintessentially human experience. Understanding the nature of the loss experience as mediated by religion and culture, sharing knowledge and expertise and working together to ease the pain of bereavement is of interest to people around the globe

An Overview of the Laboratory’s Mission, Ongoing and Planned Activities

Forging an Israeli Coalition to Deal with Loss and Bereavement

In addition to the academic, professional, and research foci of the center, forging a working network with the various authorities in Israel is critical to the vision of the center. The establishment of a working partnership with the appropriate institutions and agencies is already underway.

Professional education and training for research and intervention

The formation of an advanced training program designed to work with the best psychologists, social workers, clergy and therapists in this area. Coursework and supervision aimed at individual, family and group intervention. The training will be cutting age and multidisciplinary, and will incorporate evidence-based alternatives to examine the efficacy of intervention.

Researching Intervention

Efficacy

These address areas such as various forms of Psychotherapy, medication, holistic and other interventions

Culture and Religion/Spirituality

The contribution of meaning systems, beliefs, social support and rituals on bereavement

The course of bereavement among spectrum of Jews, Christians, Muslims, etc.

Russian, Ethiopian, etc. Impact on ritual & outcome

Civilian Bereavement

Short and long-term impact on family members (adults and children);

Complicating and mitigating factors in natural and traumatic bereavements and how to help: Hospital, hospice, terror, accident, illness, suicide, homicide, etc.

The impact upon children

Military Bereavements

Loss of family members: children, spouses, parents, siblings, etc.

Comrade bereavement

The impact of interventions

Furthering research independently and in partnership

Expanding the research base for tracking the natural course of loss and effects of intervention paradigms. Researchers and students will work together with participating centers and agencies.

Continuing Education for the professional community

The Center will sponsor conferences, lectures, workshops and study formats in a variety of areas and invite leading speakers from Israel and abroad.

Supporting the next generation

Formation and support of a cadre of young Israeli researchers and clinicians at the MA, doctoral and post doctoral levels with expertise and knowledge in this area

The Internet as a portal and a bridge

The Center will run an active Multi-language (Arabic, English, Hebrew and Russian initially) website designed to offer an introduction to the field of loss and bereavement, resources for professionals, and for students. The web will also serve as a platform for conducting research and communicating with research participants.

Direct services

At a later stage the Center will sponsor and provide bereavement services as part of its programs for teaching, training and research.