One in five has not returned to full functioning: the dark side of the recovery process in Israel

A representative national study reveals that about 20% of the population in Israel report severe impairment in daily functioning due to mental health issues, with no decrease in this rate from October 2024 to May 2026. Young women (18-35) lead with 32% functional impairment, compared to 19% in men. The impairment is especially pronounced in the social sphere: 50% reported impairment in leisure activities and 35% difficulty in forming relationships. More than 60% of those suffering from post-trauma continue to report chronic distress even after three years.

A representative national study of the general population in Israel reveals alarming data on the extent of mental and functional impairment following the events of October 7 and the subsequent fighting. About 20% of the population report severe impairment in daily functioning due to mental health issues, and this rate did not decrease during the period examined from October 2024 to May 2026, even as symptoms subsided. The data indicate an unprecedented scale of exposure to trauma compared internationally: about 15% of respondents were present at the October 7 events or later terrorist incidents, or know someone closely who was injured, killed, or kidnapped. Young women (ages 18-35) are the most vulnerable group: 32% of them report functional impairment, compared to about 20% in the overall sample. The impairment is especially pronounced in the social sphere: 50% reported impairment in leisure activities and 35% difficulty in forming and maintaining close relationships. More than 60% of those suffering from post-trauma continue to report chronic distress even after three years. The study recommends expanding mental health services and diversifying response methods, while leveraging family and community support circles.