Israel Faces Mental Health Crisis Post-October 7 Attacks: Evaluating Medical Cannabis for PTSD Treatment

LOS ANGELES- In the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, attacks, Israel confronts a significant mental health crisis, with an estimated 580,000 citizens exhibiting severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. This surge has intensified discussions regarding the integration of medical cannabis as a therapeutic option for PTSD patients.​

Current Medical Cannabis Framework

Israel’s medical cannabis program, established in the 1990s, permits its use for various conditions, including PTSD. However, cannabis is not considered a first-line treatment; patients must demonstrate that conventional therapies have been ineffective before accessing cannabis-based treatments. This prerequisite can delay potential relief for individuals experiencing acute symptoms.​

Advocacy for Policy Reform

Advocates argue for the reevaluation of existing protocols to expedite access to medical cannabis for PTSD sufferers. They cite emerging research indicating the efficacy of cannabis in alleviating PTSD symptoms, such as hyperarousal and sleep disturbances. Given the unprecedented scale of trauma following the attacks, proponents suggest that integrating medical cannabis more readily could enhance patient outcomes and alleviate the burden on mental health services.​

Considerations and Future Directions

While medical cannabis presents a promising avenue for PTSD treatment, it is essential to balance accessibility with comprehensive clinical evaluations to ensure patient safety. Ongoing research and policy assessments are crucial to optimize treatment protocols and address the evolving mental health needs of the Israeli population.