A generation in mourning: War-related bereavement and mental health among young adults

War and mass-casualty events expose civilians to sudden loss, yet the mental health consequences of war-related bereavement among young adults remain underexamined. This study assessed associations between war-related bereavement and mental health outcomes during the ongoing war in Israel. An online survey of 948 young adults (18-30 years) was conducted between July and September 2025. Exposures included war-related and non-war-related bereavement. Outcomes were posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), depressive symptoms, and mental well-being. Multivariable regression models adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, war-related stressors, health factors, and resilience resources. Overall, 30.4% reported war-related bereavement. War-related bereavement was associated with higher PTSS and depressive symptoms and lower well-being; non-war-related bereavement was associated with depressive symptoms only. Economic hardship, media exposure, and poor health were linked to worse outcomes, whereas resilience and social support were protective. War-related bereavement is an important risk factor for distress among young adults in conflict settings.