Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper attributed a study confirming a significant increase in the number of Israelis using sleeping pills, hashish, alcohol, and addictive medications since the Al-Aqsa Flood operation on October 7, 2023, wondering why this is happening now, what are the signs of addiction, and when should help be sought?
The newspaper explained – in a report written by Daniel Feingold – that the events of October 7 had far-reaching effects on mental health in Israel, referring to a study jointly conducted by Professor Dana Tzur Bitan from the University of Haifa, the Shalvata Center for Mental Health, and Professor Yuval Nerea. from Columbia University, researched the psychological repercussions of these events that affected 420 Israelis aged 18 and over.
The study revealed a noticeable increase in the consumption of addictive substances after the beginning of the war, as 16% of participants indicated a slight increase in nicotine use, while 10% indicated an increase in alcohol consumption, and 5.5% reported an increase in cannabis use, and the use of prescription drugs was also witnessed. Medication that may lead to addiction has increased significantly, with an increase in the use of tranquilizers among 11% of participants, sleeping pills among 10%, and pain relievers among 8%.
Although these results do not necessarily indicate the emergence of a chronic or long-term disorder, according to the study; But there may be potential implications of this increased reliance on potentially addictive substances.
Addiction factors
The study indicated that some individuals have a genetic predisposition and specific personality traits that increase their likelihood of developing addiction, but difficult and traumatic life events can lead to emotional distress and a desire to relieve discomfort.
At times like these, the newspaper says, some people resort to addictive substances such as nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol, and try cannabis and other drugs, to get immediate relief, and perhaps to medications, such as tranquilizers, painkillers, and sleeping pills.
Over time, most people are able to reduce their use of these substances and keep them within the norm, the study says, but individuals who experience severe trauma and distress, and whose coping mechanisms are inadequate, may develop dependency and addiction.
Dependence develops into addiction, which is manifested by the person hiding the narcotic substances from others, and by expending great resources and effort to think about the drug and organize its acquisition and consumption.
The newspaper advised Israelis in the case of addiction to look for alternative outlets for emotional needs, such as talking to a friend, going for a walk, listening to music or praying, or seeking psychological treatment.