Israeli Society Grapples with Escalating Mental Health Crisis Post-Gaza War
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, a report by the English newspaper The Telegraph has revealed that Israeli society has been enduring a persistent psychological crisis since the Gaza War began on October 7, 2023, leading to an unprecedented rise in suicide rates and chronic mental health disorders. The report builds upon ongoing coverage of the significant mental health challenges that have become a chronic issue for the Israeli society and military after the Al-Aqsa Flood operation.
The British media outlet reported that in the current month alone, three suicides were recorded within the Israeli military, comprising two women and one man. This brings the total number of suicides since the beginning of the year to 17, the highest figure in the past 15 years.
The report further indicates that a study conducted by ‘Klalit,’ the largest health provider in the occupied territories, found that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has increased by 70 percent among the general Zionist population after the Gaza War.
Professor Amir Kroyter, director of a major mental hospital in eastern Tel Aviv, stated that the number of individuals diagnosed with PTSD is likely to increase further, at least in the short term. He explained that PTSD data indicates a much broader prevalence of mental health issues within society. However, he noted that this information does not currently encompass the Israeli military, as these cases are treated within military structures and related data remains censored.
Kroyter also expressed concerns about the shortage of trained psychiatrists and psychologists. The report points out that a significant issue stemming from mental health disorders is the potential for individuals to resort to self-medication with alcohol or drugs without adequate care.
