from TRT world
Israel is experiencing what health experts describe as a severe “mental health tsunami,” with around two million people in need of psychological assistance as addiction rates climb and social cohesion weakens, according to news outlet Yedioth Ahronoth.
Mental health professionals reported a dramatic rise in those seeking treatment since October 7, 2023, while a persistent shortage of trained therapists has placed the system under extreme strain. Eight major organisations have issued warnings of an “unprecedented explosion of mental illness” and profound collective trauma reshaping the country.
Diagnoses of depression and anxiety in 2024 were twice the levels recorded in 2013, according to recent findings. PTSD cases rose by 70% each month from October 2023 to the end of 2024; an increase of 23,600 new patients. Helpline calls have increased sixfold, while psychiatric drug use has doubled.
Nearly half of ‘Israelis’ are now reporting ongoing grief, as Ministry of Health data shows a 25% rise in therapy sessions since October 7, 2023, while short-term psychotherapy cases have grown by 471% in two years.
