The Israel Psychotrauma Center launched a new campaign on Sunday to encourage restaurants, cafes, bars and other social venues to create spaces that are more aware, sensitive and accessible for people living with trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The PTSD-friendly initiative aims to raise awareness about the daily challenges of the mental health condition and educate the hospitality sector on how best to serve sufferers, who frequently choose to stay at home rather than venture into what can feel like a frightening, unpredictable world.

Participating establishments are invited to visit the site and watch an instructional film (in Hebrew) that explains the hidden difficulties of post-trauma and offers practical guidance on welcoming these customers. Businesses are encouraged to display the scheme’s logo prominently, advertise their participation on social media, and ensure that their entire staff is aware of and on board with the scheme.

Major Israeli platforms, such as Ontopo for restaurant reservations and the business directory Easy, have already committed to incorporating a “PTSD-friendly” filter into their search applications.

“The idea is similar to being vegan-friendly,” said Shir Elias, the center’s research director. “It’s about creating a space where you can feel comfortable and express your needs without feeling embarrassed.”

The project emerged from discussions and a hackathon held by the center (known in Hebrew as Metiv) in collaboration with TechHeal, a group of high-tech professionals developing innovative responses to........

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