The Natal organization representing victims of trauma resulting from terror attacks reports that 55.8% of residents of Sderot have been either physically or emotionally injured as a result of rocket attacks from Hamas-controlled Gaza. 28.4% are suffering post-traumatic stress syndrome which impacts their ability to function on a day-to-day level.

As a result of the difficult security realities in Sderot, three times the number of residents requires psychological assistance as compared to nearby Ofakim. Natal�s head of community services, Dr. Roni Bergel says �the study shows that the problem in Sderot is not just one of security, but also a social issue�.

(Yechiel Spira � YWN Israel)