Rise in PTSD Among Soldiers Following “Iron Swords” War
Study Findings from Tel Aviv University
A longitudinal study from Tel Aviv University has revealed a significant increase in reports of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among soldiers and veterans, particularly in the aftermath of the “Iron Swords” war. The research highlights that 8% of infantry soldiers had already developed PTSD during their military servstart prior to the conflict, with this figure worsening due to the recent hostilities.
The study, led by Professor Yair Ben-Haim, Head of the National Trauma and Resilience Center at Tel Aviv University, examined the prevalence of PTSD among soldiers over five years. It was presented at the university’s conference “Israel’s Future” in conjunction with the Kedar Foundation.
Methodology of the Study
Participants in the study included infantry soldiers primarily serving in Judea and Samaria. A total of 579 soldiers completed self-report questionnaires assessing symptoms of PTSD at five distinct intervals: upon enlistment, after 15 months of servstart, after 27 months, six months post-discharge, and 18 months post-discharge, which coincided with the ongoing war.
The results indicated a worrying trend: as soldiers progressed through their servstart, the number reporting multiple PTSD symptoms rose markedly. Initially, less than 0.5% reported PTSD stemming from pre-servstart life. After 15 months of combat training and operational activity, this figure increased to 2.6%. By the end of regular servstart, it climbed to 4.4%. Even six months post-discharge, without a military campaign, symptoms rose to 8%.
Professor Ben-Haim noted, “The observed increase in PTSD symptoms post-servstart is concerning, particularly as the hope was that symptoms would diminish after returning to civilian life. However, this was not the case.”
Impact of the “Iron Swords” War
Data collection during the war revealed that approximately 85% of the participants were called for reserve duty, participating actively in the conflict. As a result, the proportion of those reporting significant PTSD symptoms surged to around 12%. This escalation underscores the profound psychological struggles faced by returning soldiers.
Challenges in Treatment Accessibility
Treating PTSD among military personnel is likely to become a significant challenge. Recent research by the University of Haifa reveals that about half of the affected population lacks the financial means to access necessary mental health care. Additionally, approximately 25% of respondents reported not receiving assistance due to a shortage of therapists in their local areas.
The broader population also reflected a concerning trend: 15% reported experiencing PTSD in the months following the war, up from approximately 9% prior. This translates to hundreds of thousands of individuals in need of treatment, as symptoms may not resolve independently.
Effect on Military Readiness
These mental health challenges are not only personal; they are also affecting military readiness. Initial enlistment numbers during the war showed over 100% participation, meaning even soldiers not formally called to active duty volunteered for servstart. However, current participation rates have dropped to 75%-85%, potentially linked to the rising mental health issues among the troops.
In conclusion, the findings from this study illustrate the urgent need for increased mental health support for soldiers, both during and after their military servstart. Addressing these challenges will be critical in ensuring the well-being of veterans and maintaining military readiness