Israel is grappling with a severe mental health crisis, described as a “mental health tsunami” by Yedioth Ahronoth. Since the events of 7 October 2023, the nation has witnessed a sharp increase in mental health issues, with two million people requiring support. A coalition of eight major mental health organizations has issued an urgent warning to the government, labeling the situation as an “outbreak of mental illness unprecedented in its depth and scope.” The crisis has been exacerbated by a severe shortage of therapists and support services, leading to widespread psychological distress across Israeli society. The prolonged conflict and trauma have left many struggling with depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and exhaustion. Families and communities are being severely affected, with experts warning that the crisis has not yet peaked. Data from Yedioth Ahronoth reveals alarming statistics: diagnoses of depression and anxiety in 2024 doubled compared to 2013, while PTSD diagnoses rose by 70 percent monthly from October 2023 to the end of 2024. Nearly half of Israelis report symptoms of persistent grief, and calls to mental health helplines have increased sixfold. A study by Clalit Health Services and the Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute found that 50 percent of those affected by the 7 October attacks are still struggling, with one in five people in the general population suffering severe functional impairment due to mental health issues. The Israeli Ministry of Health has announced a national rescue plan, estimated to cost 1.7 billion shekels ($517 million), which includes doubling the number of psychologists, improving salaries, upgrading psychiatric wards, and expanding home-based and community services. However, senior clinicians stress that extensive reforms are needed to address the crisis effectively.
