An Israeli man, Roei Shalev, took his own life days after the second anniversary of the tragic attack at the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023. He survived the attack but endured deep emotional scars after witnessing the murder of his girlfriend and best friend.
On social media, hours before his death, Shalev expressed his pain: “Please don’t be angry with me. No one will ever understand me. I just want this suffering to end.” These heartbreaking words highlight the struggle many face in silence.
During the attack, over 370 festival-goers were killed as Hamas militants infiltrated Israel. Shalev’s girlfriend, Mapal Adam, and his friend, Hili Solomon, were killed right before him while they sought refuge under a car. Shalev tried to save his girlfriend, who was fatally shot.
After the attack, Shalev’s mother, deeply affected by the tragedy and the loss of Adam, took her own life just weeks later. Reports suggest she had been very close to her.
In response to the news of Shalev’s death, Maayan Adam, Mapal’s sister, shared a touching message online. She expressed her hope that Roei and her sister are finally reunited, free from suffering.
The Nova Tribe Community Foundation, which supports attack survivors, remembered Roei as a kind and courageous figure. They emphasized his role as a community leader and basketball captain, highlighting his dedication to helping others.
This tragedy has sparked a conversation around mental health support for survivors. Several political leaders have echoed the need for action. Yair Golan, head of the leftist Democrats party, voiced his concerns, saying, “We need to give them all the help we can – so they don’t feel alone.”
The impact of traumatic events like this extends far beyond immediate losses. Research shows that survivors often deal with long-term psychological effects. A 2021 study in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that nearly 25% of survivors face post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This highlights the urgency for adequate mental health resources in communities affected by violence.
As society reflects on these events, it’s essential to remember those affected and continue pushing for accessible mental health support. It may save lives and help those struggling just to get through each day.
