The war in Ukraine has sharply exacerbated the issue of the population’s mental health, requiring urgent attention and innovative solutions. Experts warn that without sufficient support, this crisis could affect the country for decades.
The third year of the war has brought significant changes to the lives of millions of Ukrainians, leaving numerous physical and invisible emotional scars. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, more than 12 million people need humanitarian assistance, with numerous civilians experiencing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Children, who witness horrific events, are particularly affected.
Mental health issues require a comprehensive approach, but the lack of funding and specialists complicates access to professional assistance. Programs like “How are you?”, initiated by Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska, help reduce the stigma around mental disorders, but resources remain limited.
Among positive changes, initiatives like the Estonian platform DocuMental, which provides remote diagnostics and treatment, are noteworthy. This tool assists Ukrainian specialists in consulting patients across the country, which is critically important during crises when infrastructure is at risk. More than 8,000 free consultations have already been conducted, and the platform continues to expand its activities thanks to support from international donors.
Maintaining mental health is critically important for the resilience of Ukrainian society. Investments in this sector should be a priority on par with the physical reconstruction of the country. If not addressed, society may face more severe consequences in the future.
| Category | Indicators |
|---|---|
| Anxiety | 53% |
| Depression | 38% |
| PTSD | 54% |
| Severe Anxiety | 21% |
| Children with PTSD | 26% |
