Yoni, a 19-year-old Israeli man, had to change his plans to join the military due to worsening drug abuse following Hamas’s October 7 attack.
Health professionals in wartime Israel have noticed a significant increase in drug, alcohol, and other addictive behaviors.
Yoni, using a pseudonym for privacy, shared that his drug use escalated after the war, calling it a means to escape reality following the loss of a friend in the attack.
Psychiatrist Shaul Lev-Ran stated that there has been a surge in the consumption of addictive substances as a way to cope with emotional stress caused by traumatic events.
A study conducted in Netanya found a connection between exposure to the October 7 events and increased substance consumption.
A quarter of Israelis showed an increase in addictive substance use post-war, compared to one in seven before the conflict.
In response to the findings, the Palestinian Authority did not offer similar data for addiction in the Palestinian territories.
– ‘Shock’ –
The October 7 attack had a deep impact on Israeli society, leading to a rise in addictive behaviors among those directly affected by the traumatic event.
The attack resulted in many casualties, both civilian and military, and led to retaliatory military campaigns with significant casualties on both sides.
The study also noted an increase in addiction among Israelis displaced from areas near conflict zones in Gaza and Lebanon.
– ‘Forget’ –
The study highlighted a concerning trend of substance addiction among the Israeli population, with a sharp increase in the use of sleeping pills and painkillers.
Individuals reported using drugs as a way to cope and forget about the harsh reality of war and conflict.
Yoni reflected on his own experience, acknowledging the need for rehab and a desire to return to complete his military service.
Through his journey, Yoni aims to overcome his addiction and contribute positively to society.
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