The high incidence of PTSD is explained by increased news consumption and especially by the availability of explicit videos on social media. In addition, data collected the first week after October 7th indicates the possible development of post-trauma at a later time. The new study from TAU, Stanford University, and the Wizermed company used smartwatches and a dedicated application to monitor changes in mental and physiological indices as a result of the traumatic events of October 7th.
For comparison, just after the fall of the World Trade Center towers, 7. Brandeau from Stanford University. It was published on medRxiv on December 18, Data based on , daily questionnaires filled out by nearly 5, participants revealed that stress levels after October 7th were unprecedented and far exceeded those observed during previous events.
The research is based on two sub-studies. The first is a prospective study that began in November and included approximately 5, participants who were equipped with smart watches that monitored daily changes in their mental and physiological indices. In addition, the researchers conducted a survey among the aforementioned participants and among 2, panel participants who constituted a representative sample of adult Jewish Israelis, which included questionnaires on PTSD and clinical anxiety as well as questions about news consumption and watching videos containing explicit images in the week after October 7th.
Further analysis of the data shows that the incidence of PTSD is highest among young people, women, and the traditional and secular population. Recognizing early signs that may lead to PTSD is crucial. This is particularly relevant for cases where trauma exposure occurs indirectly, such as through mass media. Identifying these early signs is vital for enabling prompt intervention and averting the long-term detrimental effects on mental health.
