The Rising Prevalence of Substance Abuse Disorder in Israel: Understanding the Economic and Social Impact

We spoke with Prof. Shaoli Lev Ran, the founder of the Israeli Center for Addictions, and the Center’s CEO Inbal Dor Karbel, to understand the costs of addiction in Israel. Prof. Lev Ran shared that by the end of 2023, one in three women and one in five men in Israel were showing post-traumatic symptoms. These symptoms can include sleep disturbances, bad dreams, anxiety, and avoidance behavior, which can lead to the use of addictive substances.

Lev Ran explained that around one in four Israelis are at an increased risk of using addictive substances to cope with these symptoms. This increased risk does not mean a full-blown addiction, but it indicates the beginning of a loss of control due to substance use. The prevalence of substance use increases the closer individuals are to trauma, with 50% of those experiencing trauma showing excessive substance use.

The Center emphasized the importance of understanding the spectrum of substance use, from occasional use to addiction. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing addiction from developing. They highlighted the need for a national program that includes training for professionals in various sectors to recognize and address substance use in the early stages.

They also discussed the economic impact of addiction, with estimates suggesting that addiction costs Israel billions of shekels per year. By investing in prevention and treatment, significant savings can be achieved. The Center is preparing to open a new treatment center in partnership with Hadassah Hospital and the Hebrew University, focusing on innovative treatment methods and professional training.

The Center is working on a national program with the Ministry of Education to introduce mental health and addiction prevention programs in schools. They are also collaborating with health insurance funds to improve access to addiction treatment. By addressing addiction issues early and providing comprehensive support, the Center aims to reduce the stigma associated with substance use and improve outcomes for individuals and communities.

In conclusion, Prof. Lev Ran highlighted that understanding post-traumatic symptoms is crucial in identifying individuals at risk for substance abuse disorder (SAD). SAD affects both men and women equally globally but particularly more women than men.

He also emphasized that prevention is key when it comes to SAD as early detection could prevent or mitigate its progression into full-blown addiction.

Furthermore, he pointed out that there’s an economic cost associated with SAD as it affects productivity levels globally.

Overall Prof. Lev Ran’s insights shed light on how understanding SAD could lead towards better prevention efforts resulting not only