Health crisis in Israel: Trauma after terrorist attacks increases

Health crisis in Israel: Trauma after terrorist attacks increases

In the past few months, a worrying health crisis has manifested itself in Israel that is heavily burdened by the population. The starting point of this crisis was the devastating terrorist attacks from the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023. These attacks not only led to a high loss of human life, but also to decades of psychological trauma. The representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Israel, Michel Themen, explained that the tragedy is annoying and that the effects are comprehensive and profound.

Around 1,200 people were killed in the attacks, and the Situation escalated with the kidnapping of around 200 hostages and the shelling of Israel with around 19,000 rockets. These circumstances led to the expulsion of 75,000 people who are forced to leave their houses without having a return perspective. The collective grief and fear have triggered a wave of mental illnesses, with a doubling or even tripling of inquiries for psychiatric support.

mental health under pressure

said that the number of people who need psychiatric help has risen dramatically. This increase is due to the considerable stress caused by the ongoing conflicts and a generally unstable lifestyle. The entire health system is particularly affected in the north of the country. Many medical systems only work in protected areas such as cellars or parking garages.

"A patient without daylight is a patient without becoming a natural force," emphasized Thieren, which clearly illustrates the challenges with which health service providers are faced. These cold, dark environments not only hinder recovery, but also contribute to the deterioration in psychological well -being.

The overall picture in Israel shows how deep the wounds of war and violence are sitting. Dealing with this collective sadness not only requires medical interventions, but also a comprehensive renewal of social peace. Against this background, it remains to be seen which steps the international community and local institutions will take to support the mental health of the population and to find ways to promote the return of hostages. And while the political negotiations are still in a tense state, the effects of this tragedy on the population will continue to stop, as well as Current reporting from www.radiohagen.de makes it clear .