As Russia’s war rages, Ukraine’s mental health crisis spirals
Al Jazeera
Ukraine estimates that almost half the population needs support, but there is a worrying shortage of trained psychologists.
When Russia invaded Ukraine, 28-year-old Alina Viatkina adopted a dog.
Even though she did not have a permanent home of her own, she knew that taking care of a pet would be a comfort. It was a wartime coping mechanism.
Since 2017, Viatkina, a psychology student, has worked as a manager in an NGO supporting veterans and their families with their mental health, an issue which has become increasingly pressing as the full-scale war continues for a third year.
Ukraine’s health ministry estimates that almost half of the population, 15 million of 38 million, will require psychological support, while three to four million people will need medication.
First Lady Olena Zelenska has been the face of a campaign called How are you? The question has already become a symbol of care and mental health support in times of crisis. Her website lists a number of apps and organisations that can help with trauma.
