Existential shattering in the American Jewish diaspora post-October 7: A literature review

Emerging research on the psychological effects of October 7 has examined acute trauma responses such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Less attention has been paid to the existential dimensions of these experiences. This literature review explores trauma and existential shattering among American Jews following October 7 and whether existential shattering is a useful construct for understanding the broader psychological impact on this community. A systematic literature search of publications from 2015 to 2025 was conducted. From 198 initially identified sources, 43 peer-reviewed articles, five book chapters, and five gray literature sources were included. Coding focused on themes related to antisemitism, Jewish identity, and the American Jewish experience. Research has understandably concentrated on individuals directly impacted by the October 7 attacks. Nonetheless, the rise in antisemitism across the United States has reactivated intergenerational traumas and reaffirmed perceptions of continuing existential threat. Themes emerging from the literature on safety, belonging, connection to Israel, and expressions of Jewish identity reflect existential disruptions, such as challenges to meaning, identity crises, and emotional turmoil. Alongside recognized mental health conditions, the literature suggests that existential shattering may offer a valuable framework for understanding this distress and providing culturally competent trauma-informed care.