As dawn broke on October 7, 2023, many festival-goers at the Nova music festival near Gaza were under the influence of recreational drugs like MDMA or LSD when Hamas gunmen launched their attack. Recent research from Haifa University suggests that MDMA, known for its euphoric effects, may have provided survivors with psychological resilience amidst the chaos.
Neuroscientists are currently peer-reviewing findings that indicate individuals on MDMA experienced more positive mental states, both during the incident and in subsequent months. This research marks a notable opportunity to study mass trauma where many individuals were using mind-altering substances.
The attack resulted in 360 fatalities and numerous kidnappings at the event, which drew about 3,500 attendees. "We had individuals hiding under dead bodies while on LSD or MDMA," explained Prof. Roy Salomon, a lead investigator. He highlighted concerns about how drug-induced brain plasticity could affect people's responses during such a traumatic event.
From over 650 surveyed survivors, approximately two-thirds reported using recreational drugs, including MDMA, LSD, and marijuana. Prof. Salomon noted that those on pure MDMA exhibited significantly better mental health outcomes in the early months post-attack, showing improved sleep and reduced distress compared to non-users. Researchers hypothesize that pro-social hormones activated by MDMA, such as oxytocin, fostered bonding and reduced fear among those escaping the violence.
Survivors like Michal Ohana attribute their survival to the drug's effects, insisting that it offered a mental shield against the horrors unfolding around them. "I believe it saved my life," she said. Some analysts argue that the belief in MDMA's protective qualities could aid in recovery.
Although MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD is already under investigation in several countries, only Australia has sanctioned its use. Countries like the U.S. remain skeptical due to concerns over long-term efficacy and potential health risks associated with MDMA.
In Israel, where MDMA is illegal, clinical psychologists are restricted to experimental frameworks for treatment purposes. Current findings on the Nova study are closely monitored by therapists working with PTSD, as they hope to utilize similar strategies in military-related traumas. Dr. Anna Harwood-Gross from the Metiv Psychotrauma Centre commented on the study's significance, expressing optimism about the potential therapeutic applications of MDMA, especially in a context of ongoing conflict.
As Israeli therapists adapt their approaches, a cultural shift is observed in the recognition of collective trauma stemming from the attacks. Danny Brom, a senior figure in trauma counseling, noted a newfound understanding of the widespread need for psychological support.
The mental health ramifications of the attack are also significantly felt in Gaza, where many have been subjected to violence and displacement, highlighting the urgent need for aid. Despite a temporary truce following the attacks, the search for long-term solutions remains elusive for both Israeli survivors and the broader impacted community.
Survivor Michal Ohana reflects on the ongoing struggle for peace and normalcy in the aftermath of the tragedy, stressing the endurance of trauma in everyday life. "I live this every day," she shared, underscoring that recovery is a gradual process, often misunderstood by those around her.
Neuroscientists are currently peer-reviewing findings that indicate individuals on MDMA experienced more positive mental states, both during the incident and in subsequent months. This research marks a notable opportunity to study mass trauma where many individuals were using mind-altering substances.
The attack resulted in 360 fatalities and numerous kidnappings at the event, which drew about 3,500 attendees. "We had individuals hiding under dead bodies while on LSD or MDMA," explained Prof. Roy Salomon, a lead investigator. He highlighted concerns about how drug-induced brain plasticity could affect people's responses during such a traumatic event.
From over 650 surveyed survivors, approximately two-thirds reported using recreational drugs, including MDMA, LSD, and marijuana. Prof. Salomon noted that those on pure MDMA exhibited significantly better mental health outcomes in the early months post-attack, showing improved sleep and reduced distress compared to non-users. Researchers hypothesize that pro-social hormones activated by MDMA, such as oxytocin, fostered bonding and reduced fear among those escaping the violence.
Survivors like Michal Ohana attribute their survival to the drug's effects, insisting that it offered a mental shield against the horrors unfolding around them. "I believe it saved my life," she said. Some analysts argue that the belief in MDMA's protective qualities could aid in recovery.
Although MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD is already under investigation in several countries, only Australia has sanctioned its use. Countries like the U.S. remain skeptical due to concerns over long-term efficacy and potential health risks associated with MDMA.
In Israel, where MDMA is illegal, clinical psychologists are restricted to experimental frameworks for treatment purposes. Current findings on the Nova study are closely monitored by therapists working with PTSD, as they hope to utilize similar strategies in military-related traumas. Dr. Anna Harwood-Gross from the Metiv Psychotrauma Centre commented on the study's significance, expressing optimism about the potential therapeutic applications of MDMA, especially in a context of ongoing conflict.
As Israeli therapists adapt their approaches, a cultural shift is observed in the recognition of collective trauma stemming from the attacks. Danny Brom, a senior figure in trauma counseling, noted a newfound understanding of the widespread need for psychological support.
The mental health ramifications of the attack are also significantly felt in Gaza, where many have been subjected to violence and displacement, highlighting the urgent need for aid. Despite a temporary truce following the attacks, the search for long-term solutions remains elusive for both Israeli survivors and the broader impacted community.
Survivor Michal Ohana reflects on the ongoing struggle for peace and normalcy in the aftermath of the tragedy, stressing the endurance of trauma in everyday life. "I live this every day," she shared, underscoring that recovery is a gradual process, often misunderstood by those around her.
