12 percent of Israeli reservists are traumatized

A large number of Israeli reservists participating in Israel’s operations in the Gaza Strip have shown symptoms of severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the Haaretz newspaper, a study found that 12 percent of reservists participating in the conflict in Gaza were unable to continue their duties due to post-traumatic stress disorder. The studies revealed that the psychological disorders of Israeli soldiers are getting worse.

THE PSYCHOLOGICAL BURDEN OF THE GAZA WAR

A Tel Aviv University team led by Yair Bar-Haim , director of the Israeli National Center for Stress and Resilience, examined the psychological effects of Israeli soldiers during the conflict in Gaza. The study found that 12 percent suffered from severe post-traumatic stress disorder, making it impossible for them to remain on duty. Another 12 percent also showed psychological symptoms, although not reaching the level of clinical disorder, making it difficult for soldiers to continue their service.

DECREASE IN RESERVE SOLDIERS' RETURN TO DUTY RATE

The study showed that the rate of response to the call for service by reserve soldiers, which was 100 percent at the beginning of the war, had recently fallen to 75 to 80 percent . Economic hardship, family responsibilities, and the uncertain goals of the war were among the most important reasons for this decline. The weakening of social motivation and the unjust distribution of the burden of war were also considered factors affecting the soldiers' desire to continue fighting.

WEAKENING OF PSYCHOLOGICAL RESISTANCE

It was stated that the psychological resilience of reserve soldiers weakened after being repeatedly exposed to severe shocks. This weakening was one of the main factors that caused the soldiers to reject the call to service .