New Israeli Research Details Escalating Stress and Health Issues Post-Conflict

What’s happening?

A new report from the Israeli Institute for Occupational Safety and Health highlights the long-term effects of war on returning IDF reservists. This extensive study documents significant increases in health problems including stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and increased pain in neck and back post the recent Israel-Hamas war.

Why it matters?

The physical and psychological ramifications of conflict extend far beyond the battlefield. With approximately 43% of workers reporting increased stress and anxiety, the effects compound existing health risks and can have detrimental impacts on overall workplace safety and productivity.

By the numbers

• Stress and Anxiety: 43% of workers returning faced stress and anxiety.
• Sleep Problems: 39% experienced severe sleep disturbances.
• Musculoskeletal Pain: Reports of neck and back pain have doubled since last summer.
• Other Impacts: Elevated fatigue, with about 7% experiencing workplace accidents during the two war months.

Bigger picture

Increased health risks do not just affect individual workers; they pose threats to organizational productivity and safety. Nonetheless, a positive note emerges as 57% of respondents finding their work fundamentally contributes to their well-being, despite wartime challenges.

What’s next?

IIOSH urges employers to take preemptive measures to safeguard employee mental health. Recommendations include creating effective work protocols, actively monitoring employee behavior for signs of distress, and improving conditions to reduce stress factors–all crucial steps towards fostering safety and well-being in the work environment.

Dr. Miki Winkler’s take

Summarizing the findings, IIOSH director-general, Dr. Miki Winkler affirmed stress and mental fatigue as major workplace health hazards now exacerbated by war. The productive function on mental well-being is underlined, and employers are encouraged to utilize IIOSH services for maintaining the safety and health of their employees.

This story was first published on jpost.com.