Israel faces a growing mental health challenge in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas massacre, with experts warning that the full psychological impact may not emerge for years to come.

Among those sounding the alarm is MK Kathrin Shitrit, chair of the Knesset Caucus for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.

“Suicidal thoughts related to wars and terrorist attacks emerge several years after the event, although mental illness occurs in the first year,” she cautioned during Sunday’s committee meeting. “Precisely because of this, it is extremely important to identify and treat cases of depression now, and to provide preemptive treatment before suicidal thoughts arise.”

“Suicidal thoughts related to wars and terrorist attacks emerge several years after the event, although mental illness occurs in the first year,” cautioned MK Kathrin Shitrit, chair of the Knesset Caucus for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, during Sunday’s committee meeting. “Precisely because of this, it is extremely important to identify and treat cases of depression now, and to provide preemptive treatment before suicidal thoughts arise.”

According to the Institute of Forensic Medicine, from October 2023 until the end of 2024, approximately 217 suspected suicide cases were recorded, compared to an annual average of 242 cases between 2017-2023. However, these figures represent only about two-thirds of cases nationwide, excluding deaths in hospitals and the military.

“We fear that the significant wave is still ahead,” warns Adv. Efrat Atun, whose organization “Safe Heart” works directly with Oct. 7 survivors. She called the findings a “transparent circle” of suffering that often goes unrecognized. Her team has witnessed firsthand the increase in extreme and emergency cases among survivors and their families.

But the trauma extends far beyond civilians. In army barracks and on bases throughout Israel, a massive psychological intervention is underway. Lt. Col. Yagel Sharabi revealed that approximately 250,000 soldiers have undergone “processing days” after combat, group sessions designed to prevent the repression that can lead to severe shell shock.

In response, the Ministry of Health has unveiled a comprehensive national mental health plan with a 1.4 billion NIS budget that will help develop “a wide range of community mental health services through health funds,” including support centers, expanded clinics, and specialized crisis teams. The plan also focuses on “recruiting expert peers and accompanying instructors working alongside professional teams” to ensure those suffering receive personalized care.