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1 out of 4 Israelis Used Addictive Substances Since October 7

Since the October 7 massacre, 1 in 4 Israelis has been using addictive substances, according to a recent report by the Israeli Center for Addiction (ICA).

These substances include alcohol, unprescribed drugs, and prescription drugs, at a total 15% increase from the corresponding figure in mid-2022, although increased risk use of alcohol among certain cohorts actually decreased.

The report indicates, among other things, a significant increase in the use of prescription drugs, sedatives, and sleeping pills in particular. As of December 23, about 1 in 6 Israelis was dealing with an addiction to prescription drugs. Additionally, 1 in 10 was dealing with addiction to sedatives and sleeping pills - an increase of 100% and 180% compared to 2022.

The growth in the use of increased-risk sedatives and sleep medications was found regardless of gender and age (among women, men, young and old). Among young people, a 7% increase was found in the increased-risk use of cannabis (13.4% vs. 12.5%).

In addition, the increase in high-risk use of addictive substances parallels the increase in the proportion of Israelis who suffer from post-traumatic stress following the events of October 7: approximately 1 in 3 women and approximately 1 in 5 men were found to have a high level of post-traumatic stress following the events, an increase of about 150% and 65% respectively in comparison to the data in 2022. (JPost / VFI News)

“God, we pray that You heal all the people who are suffering both physically and mentally due to the war. We humbly ask that You take care of them, guide them towards recovery, and give them the strength to overcome their addictions. We pray for the mental well-being of everyone who has been severely affected since the October 7 massacre, and we hope that our healthcare system will meet their needs.”