Being religious is better for your mental health, Israeli rabbi scientist-led study reveals

A new Hebrew University study of 3,000 Israeli Jewish adults finds that religiosity correlates with lower rates of addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The protective effect is largely mediated by a stronger sense of meaning in life and healthier digital habits, rather than religiosity itself. The study, led by Dr. Aaron Cherniak, was published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction.

A new study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem suggests that religious belief is associated with better mental health outcomes, but the protective effect is largely driven by a stronger sense of purpose and healthier digital habits rather than religiosity itself. The study, published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, surveyed 3,000 Israeli Jewish adults in February 2025, including secular, traditional, religious, and haredi respondents. Religious participants reported lower rates of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and behavioral addictions. However, once researchers accounted for meaning in life and digital habits, religiosity no longer independently predicted better mental health, except for problematic substance use. Lead researcher Dr. Aaron Cherniak, a clinical psychologist and rabbi, noted that the findings suggest that cultivating meaning and reducing harmful digital exposure are factors anyone can strengthen, regardless of religious belief. The study offers insight into psychological resilience during prolonged collective trauma and constant exposure to disturbing online content.