Recent research indicates that more than a third of Jews living in the diaspora are exhibiting signs of probable post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the events of October 7 and a surge in antisemitic attacks. A report by Hadassah UK, in collaboration with the mental health charity Jami, reveals that 34 percent of respondents in a survey met diagnostic criteria for PTSD, despite being geographically distant from the conflict.
The study, which surveyed 511 participants, highlights broader mental health concerns within the community. Over 40 percent displayed signs of anxiety disorders, while more than a quarter reported symptoms of depression. Dr. Shiri Ben-David, one of the report’s co-authors alongside Neomi Adler-Maimon, emphasized the unexpected impact of these findings.
Understanding the Impact of Trauma
Dr. Ben-David noted that the report sheds light on the significant role of “learned helplessness,” a psychological phenomenon where individuals feel powerless due to repeated negative experiences. She stated, “I didn’t think it would have such an impact on things like encountering antisemitism in your daily life.”
The report establishes a direct link between exposure to news and social media related to October 7 and feelings of helplessness. Participants with higher exposure to these events tended to develop stronger beliefs about their inability to control their safety, influence political outcomes, or protect their community from harm.
The report also discusses the compounded effects of antisemitism, which have fostered a climate of hypervigilance and social threat. Dr. Ben-David explained that this environment significantly affects individuals’ sense of safety and belonging within British society, leading to ongoing psychological stress.
Another noteworthy aspect of the report is the connection between reminders of the Holocaust and current experiences of antisemitism. Dr. Ben-David pointed out that while many members of the Jewish community in the UK are not direct descendants of Holocaust survivors, the historical trauma remains a pervasive influence. “The Holocaust is like an umbrella to all Jewish people’s reactions, regardless of their specific origin,” she remarked.
Community Support as a Protective Factor
The findings underscore that while some individuals may benefit from therapeutic interventions, social support emerged as the most significant protective factor against psychological distress. Strong relationships with family, friends, and the wider community provide essential buffers against trauma.
Dr. Ben-David emphasized the reciprocal nature of these relationships, stating, “By providing support to others you are much less helpless. We want to ‘unlearn’ this learned helplessness by showing that you can actually do things, that you are useful and meaningful to other people.”
Rob Taub, executive director of Hadassah UK, described the report as a critical tool for understanding the mental health challenges facing the community since October 7. He stated, “This report gives clinical clarity to what many in our community have been experiencing. By combining Hadassah Medical Organisation’s expertise with UK data, it highlights the profound mental health impact of both the war and rising antisemitism.”
Hadassah UK is committed to collaborating with other organizations to translate these findings into practical support initiatives aimed at strengthening resilience and recovery within the community.
For further insights, the full report can be accessed at Hadassah UK’s website.
