New Mental Health Data Reveals 54% of Highly Educated Participants Earn Below the National Average Wage
- Jonathan H. Westover, PhD
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
American Friends of NATAL has released new data from NATAL, the Trauma and Resiliency Center, that underscores the deep and pervasive impact of trauma. The findings, collected by NATAL's Research and Development Unit, highlight the urgent need for expanded mental health support and vocational interventions, for those experiencing trauma and PTSD.
The Unseen Cost: Economic Underperformance and Vocational Strain
Among highly educated individuals, nearly half of participants in NATAL’s vocational coaching program hold higher education degrees, and the economic fallout of trauma is profound:
Over 54% earn below the national average wage.
49.3% say their jobs do not reflect their actual abilities.
Vocational challenges mirror emotional ones. At the outset of coaching:
58.6% report difficulty with time management and organization.
57.5% struggle with concentration.
51.5% suffer from low motivation.
48.6% deal with self-worth issues.
“These statistics represent how the lives and futures of Israelis are being shaped and derailed by trauma. The burden is emotional and psychological, and also physical, economic, and social. It impacts families, communities, and the country at large,” said Maayan Aviv, CEO of American Friends of NATAL.
Widespread Trauma Exposure and Lasting Consequences
According to NATAL, 55% of individuals reaching out for help reported direct exposure to traumatic events, including physical, visual, or auditory experiences of violence. Nearly half (48%) reported exposure to rocket fire, illustrating the intensity and regularity of threat in everyday life for many Israelis.
This constant exposure to danger is taking a measurable toll on public health. Among those who contacted NATAL over the past 18 months:
65% reported poor physical and mental health.
Over 60% experienced moderate impairment in daily functioning.
64% were at risk of developing depression, while 68% were at risk for PTSD, with prevalent symptoms such as hyperarousal and chronic sleep disturbances.
55.8% were at risk of developing an anxiety disorder.
About the Data
Since October 7, 2023, more than 86,000 individuals have reached out to NATAL’s support services. As part of our data collection efforts, 2,140 trauma assessment surveys were completed, of which 1,774 were deemed valid for analysis. The majority of these were submitted by reservists (70%) and civilians (30%) receiving care through emergency mental health protocols.
About NATAL
NATAL - Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals and communities in Israel cope with the psychological effects of war and terror. Founded in 1998, NATAL provides a multidisciplinary approach to trauma treatment, focusing on building resilience and providing support to those affected by conflict and other traumatic events.
