A speaker discussed the impact of difficult events such as terrorist attacks, security escalations, and serious traffic accidents on individuals. According to the speaker, about 80% of these individuals will experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress in the hours, days, and even the first month or two after the event. However, most of them manage to overcome these symptoms without professional treatment. The speaker emphasized that professional therapeutic intervention can reduce the chance of developing post-traumatic stress disorder but also mentioned that non-professional intervention can increase this risk. He suggested that it is not always necessary to interfere with natural recovery processes.
The professor who was present at the discussion added that a month and a half had passed since the events, and those still experiencing symptoms were defined as post-traumatic. Although it was difficult to estimate the percentage of participants who fell into this category, it was estimated to be around ten percent. However, many more people encounter difficult situations and struggle to overcome them, requiring treatment.
Regarding Israelis defined as post-traumatic, the professor estimated that there are approximately 30,000 cases, although he believed that this number would likely be much larger. One significant issue was the lack of qualified professionals available for treatment. The professor also discussed the prolonged struggle expected in the next ten or twenty years and emphasized the need for new treatments to address this issue.
The professor concluded by emphasizing the importance of developing new treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder and supporting family members and friends in need of treatment and support. He also highlighted how survivors with post-traumatic stress could integrate into the labor market and help reduce manpower shortages. This effort would require developing new treatments over time while dealing with a prolonged struggle and creating new technologies to support recovery efforts.