The war has altered not only the security and economic situation in Ukraine, but also the mental health of millions of people. Prolonged exposure to the threat of shelling, loss of home, forced displacement, separation from loved ones and constant uncertainty create an environment of chronic stress. Against this backdrop, international organisations are reporting high risks of depression among the population.
According to estimates by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), 38% of Ukraine’s population is at high risk of depression. In frontline areas, this figure rises to 43%. Among internally displaced persons, the risk of depressive disorders affects around half of those surveyed. These figures point to a large-scale humanitarian problem that affects daily life, work capacity and the social resilience of society.
War as a factor in mental exhaustion
Depression in wartime often develops gradually. A person may function in a state of constant alert for a long time, dealing with everyday issues, adapting to new circumstances and supporting their family. After months or years of such strain, the mind begins to wear down.
Experts explain that constant anxiety alters the functioning of the nervous system. The body remains in a state of constant vigilance for danger. This disrupts sleep, reduces concentration, leads to emotional numbness, and causes a loss of interest in usual activities. For some people, this very state becomes a precursor to depression.
The accumulation of losses has a particular impact. This is not just about the death of loved ones or the destruction of homes. People lose their familiar way of life, their plans, their stability, and their sense of control over the future. Such changes are often experienced as a psychological blow.
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Frontline regions are under the greatest pressure
In areas close to the front line, the psychological strain is particularly acute. Constant explosions, sirens, power cuts, the risk of evacuation and damage to infrastructure create an environment where rest becomes a rarity.
For residents of such areas, stress has no clear time limits. People may work, look after children and manage their daily lives, yet simultaneously live under the constant threat of danger. This is precisely why the risk of depression is higher there than the national average.
Psychologists note that in such conditions, people often put off seeking help. Issues of safety, housing, work and family evacuation take precedence. Symptoms of depression are ignored until the condition becomes more severe.
Internally displaced persons are among the most vulnerable groups
Almost half of internally displaced persons are at risk of depression. For many, displacement means losing their home, job, social circle and familiar routine. Even after moving, people often remain in a state of uncertainty.
Some displaced persons live in temporary accommodation or are forced to move frequently. Others face difficulties finding work, a lack of funds, and the need to re-enrol their children in school. At the same time, they remain anxious about relatives who have stayed behind in dangerous regions.
This combination of financial strain and emotional stress poses a long-term risk to mental health.
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How depression affects society
The prevalence of depression extends beyond the realm of personal issues. It affects the labour market, productivity, family relationships, children’s education and communities’ ability to recover. People experiencing severe psychological distress are more likely to struggle with daily tasks and maintaining social connections.
For a country living under conditions of prolonged war, the mental health of the population becomes one of the key resources for resilience. It determines people’s ability to work, make decisions, support their loved ones and participate in reconstruction.
Why demand for assistance will continue to rise
Even after active hostilities have ceased, the psychological effects of war do not disappear immediately. Many reactions manifest themselves later, once a person emerges from survival mode and is confronted with what they have been through.
This is precisely why experts anticipate a further increase in the need for psychological and psychiatric support. For Ukraine, this means a need to develop accessible services, train specialists and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
High risks of depression among the population have already become part of the reality of wartime. This is one of the least visible consequences of war, yet it will determine the quality of life for millions of people in the coming years.
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