Study Reveals Long-Term Mental Health Impact in Israel Three Years After Oct 7
A comprehensive study by Clalit and Myers-JDC-Brookdale reveals that while most Israelis are recovering, 20% face chronic functional impairment and severe psychological distress three years after October 7.
A comprehensive study conducted by the Clalit Research Institute and the Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute continues to monitor the mental health status of the Israeli population following the events of October 7, presenting an updated picture as of May 2026. The research points to a complex reality: while the majority of the population is recovering, a significant group continues to cope with severe psychological distress and prolonged functional impairment. The findings indicate that among those who reported significant distress symptoms of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress, about half continue to report significant distress even after three years.
Chronic Distress and Functional Impairment
According to the study, based on a representative national sample of the general population in Israel, about 20% of the population reports severe impairment in daily functioning due to their mental state. During the period examined from October 2024 to May 2026, no decline was observed in this rate of functional impairment, even as acute symptoms occasionally subsided.
Data highlights an exceptional scope of trauma exposure compared to international standards. Approximately 15% of all respondents defined themselves in the highest personal exposure category—having been present during the October 7 events or subsequent terror incidents themselves, or closely knowing someone who was harmed, killed, or abducted. This is a dramatic rate compared to global national trauma events, such as the September 11 attacks in the United States, where direct exposure stood at about 4%. Consequently, roughly a third of the population reports a need for psychological treatment.
Vulnerability Among Young Women
Women report higher rates of distress symptoms and functional impairment. The rate of functional impairment is particularly high among young women aged 18-35, reaching 32%, compared to about 20% in the general sample, 26% among women over 35, and only 19% among men. In this young female demographic, about one-third cross clinical thresholds for anxiety, depression, or PTSD symptoms.
The research examined five aspects of daily functioning, including home, work, studies, leisure activities, and maintaining close relationships. While work and household management remained relatively stable, social aspects suffered significantly. Fifty percent reported that their leisure activities were harmed, and 35% noted difficulties in forming and maintaining close relationships.
The Importance of Support Networks
Prof. Ran Balicer, Chief Innovation Officer at Clalit, noted: "The findings we have collected systematically over the past three years show that alongside a steady rise in those receiving mental health treatment, psychological distress is becoming chronic for a substantial part of the population, accompanied by deep functional impairment."
"Most of the population is recovering as expected," said Hadar Samuel, a senior researcher at the Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute. "Alongside this, a core group continues to struggle, making it vital to diversify support methods. The damage to the social aspect of life is particularly concerning, as people restrict leisure activities and struggle to maintain close bonds, precisely when family, friends, and routine serve as central anchors of resilience."
The study emphasizes that responses to the psychological consequences of the war cannot rely solely on the formal healthcare system. Strengthening family, community, and social ties remains a crucial pillar in public resilience and recovery.
