By Lyudmyla Stanislavenko, Expert at Time Ukraine Israel
For the past decade, Ukraine has been defending its statehood and fighting for its sovereignty. The war not only devastates the economy but also shatters families, relationships, and the mental health of Ukrainians. The number of people in need of psychological support grows annually, and since the full-scale invasion, this number has increased exponentially. Constant shelling of peaceful cities and civilian infrastructure leads to immense stress. Our defenders and their families, veterans, displaced persons, and civilians on the front lines and in the rear all need our special attention.
In the context of the full-scale invasion, the central and western regions, considered safer, have become new homes for many who have lost their dwellings. Heroes wounded on the battlefield are also rehabilitated in these regions.
Working with these individuals, my team and I have identified several key issues. First, Ukrainians are often hesitant to seek help from specialists. Second, there is a shortage of professionals ready to work with traumatized people. Currently, various programs are being implemented in our country, providing online psychological help and enabling Ukrainians to consult family doctors. Additionally, psychologists volunteer to work with those affected by trauma.
In particular, the Vinnytsia region has established the International Association of Mental Health (IAMH). The main goal of the association is to support those in need and to conduct educational events that promote awareness about psychological health and care.
A comprehensive approach to these issues includes working with veterans and their families, social workers, and other groups affected by the war. We teach people how to care for their mental health and how to communicate with those who have experienced crisis situations. This especially applies to military personnel who face death, violence, and constant tension daily. After returning from the front, many soldiers suffer from a range of psychological issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. It is crucial to provide them with access to professional psychological help.
The families of our Heroes also need psychological support and a safe space to express their feelings. Organizing roundtables, conferences, and other events where they can feel secure is extremely important. Caring for mental health during wartime is not only a matter of individual well-being but also of national security. Joint efforts by the government, public organizations, and international partners will help create a strong and healthy society capable of facing modern challenges.
