Ukraine is witnessing a significant rise in the number of people seeking medical help for mental health disorders such as depression, sleep disturbances, apathy, and PTSD.
Nataliia Husak, head of the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU), stated this during a program on Ukrainian television, according to Ukrinform.
“Based on the volume of services being purchased by the state, we see that Ukrainians are increasingly visiting their family doctors or outpatient and specialized care providers with alarming conditions such as depression, insomnia, anxiety, apathy, PTSD, and substance abuse — all signs of diminished mental resilience. Since 2022, the number of such patients has doubled, and in some areas, the growth is even higher,” Husak said.
According to her, one in three people in Ukraine is already experiencing either depression, symptoms of PTSD, or other forms of mental health disturbances.
Overall, the World Health Organization estimates that around nine million Ukrainians currently need or will soon require mental health support.
Husak emphasized the importance of not postponing care for one’s mental health, as it has a direct impact on physical well-being. Over the past three years, doctors have observed a rise in chronic disease flare-ups, as well as strokes, heart attacks, and cancer cases linked to mental health factors.
She also recalled that since 2021, under the “Affordable Medicines” reimbursement program, Ukrainians could receive medications for mental health conditions free of charge or with a small co-payment. She urged people not to neglect this opportunity.
Ukraine launched Mental Health Awareness Month on May 1. As part of the campaign, sociological research is being conducted to better understand the mental health conditions and needs of the population.
Illustrative photo: Freepik
Source: Number of Ukrainians seeking help for mental health issues doubles
