Ben-Gurion University Study Compares War's Impact on Mental Health of Ukrainian and Israeli Women

A new cross-national study co-authored by researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) reveals both similarities and significant differences in the mental health and well-being of women impacted by the wars in Ukraine and Israel. The research, published in Cambridge Prisms: Global Mental Health, highlights the complex and varied psychological toll of war.

The study, led in part by Prof. Richard Isralowitz and Dr. Alexander Reznik of BGU's Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research (RADAR) Center, surveyed 1,071 women—601 from Ukraine and 470 from Israel. Researchers collected data between September 2022 and December 2022 in Ukraine and November 2023 and March 2024 in Israel. The survey measured fear of war, depression, loneliness, suicidal ideation, and substance misuse.

Key findings from the study include:

• Higher Fear and Depression in Israeli Women: Israeli women reported higher levels of fear of war and depression. They also had higher levels of both psychophysiological and existential fear. The study suggests this may be due to the data being collected during what it describes as an "existential period for Israel," which included attacks from multiple countries, widespread international condemnation, and internal political dissonance.
• Increased Loneliness and Substance Use in Ukrainian Women: Ukrainian women reported more loneliness, substance use, and psycho-emotional deterioration. They had a significantly higher rate of increased substance use, especially for alcohol, sedatives, and binge drinking. The researchers noted that this could be an indication of adaptation to a prolonged war that has lasted for three years.
• No Difference in Suicidal Ideation: The study found no statistically significant difference in the level of suicidal ideation between Ukrainian and Israeli respondents.
• Depression and Alcohol Use: The study found a significant association between depression and increased alcohol use, particularly among Ukrainian respondents.

"The study’s findings partially confirm our hypothesis that while the impact of war has many similar effects on women in both countries, differences exist that may be attributed to culture and adaptation to the length of the conflict," says Prof. Richard Isralowitz, corresponding author of the study. "This research is a crucial first step in providing information for policy and intervention services to support women as they navigate increased personal and familial responsibilities during wartime".

The researchers noted that the mental health and well-being of women during war and violent conflict remain "understudied". They call for further research, including uniform data collection and analysis, to better understand the long-term impact on women and their work and family lives.

RADAR Center

Founded in 1996 in cooperation with the US Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research (RADAR) Center at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev is dedicated to applied research addressing health and well-being. Recognized for its “contributions to scientific diplomacy through outstanding efforts in international collaborative research,” the Center partners with national and international experts, organizations, and academic institutions to advance knowledge and practical interventions in public health.

With three decades of experience in uniform data collection and analysis, the RADAR Center undertakes diverse interdisciplinary projects. Current research includes multinational studies on internet gaming disorder involving 12 universities across eight countries, development of medical cannabis competencies for academic curriculum and education, and investigations into the health and well-being impacts of disaster conditions at community and individual levels. These efforts reflect the Center’s commitment to addressing emerging challenges in mental health, substance use, and related social issues.

Beyond research, the RADAR Center fosters scholarship and professional development through global fellowships, visiting scholar programs, and academic support for faculty and students. Notable achievements include a graduate research assistant receiving the prestigious Ryoichi Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship Award, and partnerships with institutions such as UCLA, New York University, Rutgers University, the National University of Singapore, and the University of Manchester. By cultivating international academic exchange and supporting the next generation of leaders, the RADAR Center plays a vital role in shaping evidence-based policy, enhancing health systems, and improving lives both in Israel and worldwide.