Israelis suffer from severe sleep deprivation amid ongoing conflict

In Israel, the ongoing wars with Hamas and Iran have led to significant psychological distress among civilians, resulting in a staggering decline in sleep quality. A study published in the International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology highlights that since the October 7, 2023, attack on Israeli civilians by Hamas, many Israelis are facing heightened anxiety and insomnia. Researchers evaluated data from approximately 9,000 participants and found that reports of poor sleep health soared from 15% to 38%, while cases of clinical insomnia jumped from 4% to 20%. Nearly half of the surveyed population reported experiencing sleep problems after the onset of the war with Hamas. This dramatic rise indicates that the psychological impact of the conflict is both profound and widespread. The lead researcher, Shoham Choshen-Hillel from Hebrew University, stated that this study represents the first systematic examination of sleep quality among civilians surrounded by consistent threats of warfare. Unlike prior studies focusing primarily on soldiers, this research uncovers the unique circumstances faced by civilians, highlighting how continuous rocket fire, air raids, and nightly sirens have severely disrupted everyday life. Choshen-Hillel emphasizes that the situation remains dire, suggesting that the psychological impacts of war extend far beyond those in direct danger. The effects of anxiety and sleeplessness could very well carry lasting consequences for mental health in the civilian population, underscoring the daily realities that Israeli families face. The recent weeklong war between Israel and Iran has intensified these fears even further. Civilians have experienced increased distress as reports indicate that the interplay of ongoing violence has compounded the sleeping issues previously studied. Choshen-Hillel has suggested that the implications of these findings are alarming, as those not presently in immediate danger are still plagued by sleepless nights. In this environment, the toll of continuous warfare is clear, and its far-reaching psychological effects warrant careful consideration and further investigation. Additionally, the study coincided with a tragic incident where Iranian missile strikes led to civilian casualties, including the deaths of eight individuals. The strikes raised the overall toll of fatalities in Israel due to the ongoing conflict to 24, with expectations of further casualties. Among those injured, a missile struck a hospital compound with 400 patients, resulting in significant, yet mainly mild injuries. This incident illustrates the direct impact of military actions on civilian life and health, indicating an escalation in violence and its immediate repercussions on the civilian population's safety and well-being.