Which Israelis are suffering the most psychologically – study

Three years after October 7, 2023, one in five Israelis suffers from serious mental difficulties that interfere with work, leisure, and social connections. A study conducted as part of the "National Mental Health Barometer" project found that the most vulnerable group is young women aged 18–35: 32% of them reported a devastating impact on daily life. Half of respondents noted a negative impact on leisure, and 35% on maintaining close relationships. About a third need help, but half do not seek professional assistance.

Three years after the tragic events of October 7, 2023, Israeli society continues to feel deep psychological consequences. According to a new study published in The Times of Israel, one in five residents suffers from serious mental difficulties that directly interfere with work, leisure, and maintaining social connections. The study was conducted as part of the "National Mental Health Barometer" project, supported by Clalit Health Services, the Joint Distribution Committee, and the Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute. Data were analyzed up to May 2026. The most vulnerable group is young women aged 18–35: 32% of them reported a devastating impact on daily life. Half of respondents noted a negative impact on leisure, and 35% on maintaining close relationships. About 15% of respondents personally experienced the events of October 7 or lost loved ones. Among those with PTSD, improvement was recorded in only 38%. About a third of Israelis need professional help, but half do not seek it: 23% believe they can cope on their own, and 17% are dissatisfied with the options offered.