MSF Psychologists Step Up to Provide Mental Health Support Amidst Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine

MSF psychologists have been providing mental health support to patients in Ukraine since 2022. In 2022 and 2023, they delivered a total of 26,324 individual mental health consultations. These consultations took place in mobile clinics as well as small villages near conflict zones in the Kherson, Donetsk, Mykolaiv, and Kharkiv regions.

In these areas, where basic needs like clean water, food, healthcare, and utilities are often prioritized over mental health, medical facilities are scarce due to destruction and lack of medical staff. The elderly population in these regions face particular challenges, as many are unable to leave due to mobility issues. The constant stress and worry can exacerbate existing health problems such as cardiovascular disease and insomnia.

MSF psychologists in mobile clinics educate patients on the importance of mental health and how it impacts their overall well-being. They offer advice on improving sleep quality, managing anxiety and tension, and provide psycho-educational training to communities on dealing with stress. These basic techniques and support can help prevent the onset of cardiovascular disease and mental disorders.

While group psychoeducation sessions and individual consultations can help stabilize the emotional state of many patients, more complex cases may require long-term support. For example