A new study has revealed widespread emotional distress among members of Israel’s security forces, including post-traumatic stress symptoms, suicidal ideation and a reluctance to seek help.
The research, led by Dr. Gaby Kashy-Rosenbaum of Ashkelon Academic College, based on responses from 111 participants—including active-duty soldiers, career service members, reservists and volunteers from the ZAKA emergency response organization—found that nearly one-third reported having suicidal thoughts to varying degrees. Approximately 10% of respondents displayed symptoms consistent with severe clinical PTSD.
The study highlighted a pattern researchers called “double avoidance,” in which individuals suppress their emotions while also avoiding professional therapy. Seventy-five percent of participants said they had not sought help on their own initiative, and more than half admitted to actively concealing their emotional state.
Researchers found a clear correlation between emotional suppression and the severity of PTSD symptoms, particularly dissociation and avoidance. Suicidal thoughts were linked across all categories of post-traumatic distress. The more severe the trauma exposure, the higher the incidence of both PTSD and suicidal ideation. Conversely, seeking professional support emerged as a strong protective factor.
The report also emphasized the vulnerabilities of career soldiers and reservists, who often return to civilian life with little or no structured support. Many reported feelings of guilt, a loss of identity and social detachment. “Some feel their worth only exists on the battlefield,” the study noted. “At home, they no longer recognize themselves.”
While some protective factors were identified—such as religious belief and perceived social support—researchers stressed that these cannot replace formal mental health care.
Dr. Gaby Kashy-Rosenbaum Photo: CourtesyThe findings come amid a rising number of suicides among security personnel in the wake of the October 7 attacks and the ongoing war. In recent weeks, eight individuals—including active-duty soldiers, reservists, career officers and ZAKA volunteers—have taken their own lives. One of them, Master Sgt. Ariel Meir Taman, had been serving continuously in body identification since the outbreak of war. “He never showed any difficulty,” his sister said. “He only encouraged us.”
Experts caution that those who appear strongest may be at greatest risk. A culture of silence and self-reliance, the report warns, often leaves the most vulnerable isolated and overlooked.
The study urges direct, compassionate communication as a life-saving tool. “A suicidal person is often ambivalent,” researchers wrote. “They may think of death, but they are also searching for hope—hoping someone will notice their pain.”
Asking one direct, non-judgmental question, the study concluded, could make all the difference.
- Dr. Gaby Kashy-Rosenbaum is head of the education track and a senior lecturer in the multidisciplinary department at Ashkelon Academic College, specializing in trauma research.