Healing the Unseen Wounds: Psychological Therapies for Ukraine's War Victims

 

 

 

 Dr. Ruwan M Jayatunge, M.D. PhD

The conflict in Ukraine began in February 2014, resulting in significant and far-reaching consequences for the physical and mental well-being of its population. The protracted nature of the war has caused deep psychological scars and emotional distress among individuals and communities, particularly those living in the region’s most severely impacted by the violence. Civilians have faced not only the immediate dangers of armed conflict but also the long-term effects of displacement, loss of loved ones, and the destruction of their homes and livelihoods. Additionally, combatants have experienced their own unique challenges, grappling with the psychological toll of warfare.

Armed conflicts are linked to complex traumatic events that can significantly affect mental health (Coventry et al., 2020). These conflicts lead to a range of consequences, including physical, psychological, mental, and spiritual harm (Moreno-Chaparro et al., 2022). They disrupt social structures and have far-reaching economic and cultural effects. Research by Moreno-Chaparro and colleagues (2022) indicates a high prevalence of mental disorders in regions impacted by such violence. Furthermore, as noted by Carpiniello (2023), women and children are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of armed conflicts.

The Psychological Impact of the Ukrainian War on Civilians

The civilian population in Ukraine has endured traumatic experiences, including the loss of family members, destruction of homes, and direct violence such as sexual assault and torture. These distressing events have severely impacted their mental health and social relationships, leading to widespread psychological suffering. The ongoing conflict has had a profound effect on the mental well-being of Ukrainians, resulting in various mental health challenges that are both immediate and enduring (Pinchuk et al., 2024).

As noted by Kurapov and colleagues (2025), many individuals are grappling with acute stress responses, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they confront the daily realities of war, characterized by the persistent threat of violence, displacement, and grief. This situation has transformed the war into a collective trauma for the Ukrainian people, significantly influencing their shared psyche and social cohesion.

  

War-Related Displacements

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to significant war-related displacements, affecting millions of individuals and families across the nation. As hostilities escalated, many Ukrainians were forced to flee their homes, seeking safety from the violence that engulfed their communities. This mass exodus has resulted in a complex humanitarian crisis, with displaced persons often facing dire conditions in temporary shelters or makeshift accommodations.

A large number of Ukrainians have become refugees across Europe, and one-third of the population has been displaced within Ukraine as internal refugees (Vintilă et al., 2023). Many displaced individuals grapple with the loss of their livelihoods, as they leave behind jobs, schools, and social networks, leading to long-term psychological and economic challenges. Yasenok et al. (2025) argue that forced displacement creates a severe, distinct mental health crisis for Ukrainian refugees.  The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing uncertainty regarding the duration of the conflict, leaving many without a clear path to return home or rebuild their lives.

  

Children Affected by the War

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has had a profound and devastating impact on children, who are among the most vulnerable populations affected by the war. Many children have been forced to flee their homes, leaving behind their familiar environments, friends, and schools, which has resulted in significant emotional and psychological distress. The disruption of education due to the destruction of schools and the need for children to relocate to safer areas has further exacerbated their situation, leading to a loss of learning opportunities and social connections. Additionally, the trauma of witnessing violence and experiencing displacement can lead to long-term mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Research highlights a significant psychiatric burden among Ukrainian youth, marked by elevated levels of clinical depression, PTSD, and anxiety (Goto et al., 2024). This assessment is supported by a study conducted by Silwal and colleagues in 2026, which corroborates these findings.

  

The Combatants Affected by War Trauma

The Ukrainian combatants who have experienced the ravages of war trauma embody a complex tapestry of psychological and emotional challenges that stem from their harrowing experiences on the battlefield. Many of these individuals grapple with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which manifests through intrusive memories, heightened anxiety, and emotional numbness, significantly impacting their daily lives and relationships.

Hyland et al. (2026) argue that combat-exposed active-duty personnel in the Armed Forces of Ukraine face an exceptionally high, interconnected psychiatric burden, with 67.4% of sampled soldiers meeting criteria for ICD-11 PTSD or Complex PTSD (CPTSD). The study highlights a 21.5% CPTSD rate and widespread comorbidities, such as depression, emphasizing the need for specialized, systemic mental health care within military rehabilitation settings.

 

War-Related Mental Health Problems

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to a significant rise in mental health issues among the population, as highlighted by Kurapov and colleagues (2022). Individuals are subjected to a relentless barrage of traumatic experiences and cumulative stressors, which manifest in various psychological challenges.

Research by Osokina and her team (2023) emphasizes the profound psychological impact of war trauma on adolescents residing in these conflict-affected areas, revealing heightened levels of distress. Furthermore, Fel and his colleagues (2022) indicate that women in these regions face an increased vulnerability to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), underscoring the gendered dimensions of war-related mental health issues.

The psychological toll of such trauma often results in a range of symptoms, including mistrust, social withdrawal, and pervasive feelings of emptiness and hopelessness. In severe cases, individuals may undergo significant personality changes, grappling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), and various somatic complaints. The impact of war can also lead to maladaptive coping strategies, including substance abuse and heavy alcohol consumption. Those who exhibit signs of social isolation, suicidal ideation, intense anger, agitation, confusion, dissociation, or psychotic symptoms are in urgent need of professional intervention to address their complex mental health needs.

  

Addressing the War trauma in Ukraine

The significance of addressing the psychological scars resulting from war trauma in Ukraine cannot be overstated, as these invisible wounds profoundly affect individuals and communities alike. The ongoing conflict has left many individuals grappling with the aftermath of violence, loss, and displacement, leading to a surge in mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Treating these psychological effects is crucial not only for the well-being of the affected individuals but also for the broader societal healing process.

When mental health is prioritized, it fosters resilience, enabling individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities. Furthermore, addressing these psychological scars can help break the cycle of trauma that often perpetuates violence and instability, paving the way for a more peaceful and cohesive society. By investing in mental health resources and support systems, Ukraine can facilitate recovery and promote a sense of hope and normalcy in a landscape still marred by conflict.

The Importance of Providing Culturally Sensitive Mental Health Care

The importance of culturally informed care cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in the healing process for those grappling with the aftermath of trauma (Sue et al., 2009). Therefore, culturally attuned mental health care is vital for addressing the psychological scars left by the war in Ukraine. Such an approach recognizes and responds to the distinct emotional and psychological needs of those impacted by the conflict. By appreciating the cultural backdrop of these individuals, mental health practitioners can customize their methods, ensuring that the interventions are not only effective but also considerate of the patients' cultural identities, beliefs, and values. This sensitivity is essential for building strong therapeutic alliances, which in turn enhances the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes.

 

Creating a Sense of Safety

In conflict scenarios, establishing a sense of safety is crucial (Hobfoll et al. 2007). Almoshmosh et al. (2016) emphasize the significance of social connections in facilitating the restoration of normal interactions and overall well-being. Additionally, community solidarity initiatives can mitigate the adverse effects of war-related trauma (Anjum et al., 2023). Offering hope to victims of war not only alleviates emotional distress but also fosters self-efficacy, resilience, personal development, and mental health (Snyder, 2002).  

Psychotherapeutic Interventions

The demand for psychotherapeutic support for war victims in Ukraine has become increasingly urgent due to the profound psychological trauma inflicted by the ongoing conflict. Various therapeutic approaches, including CBT - cognitive-behavioural therapy (Pfeiffer et al.  2025), EMDR -  eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (Palen et al., 2025) and group therapy are employed to assist individuals in processing their traumatic experiences and developing effective coping mechanisms.

Mental health professionals aim to cultivate supportive environments where victims can freely express their emotions, share their stories, and connect with others who have endured similar hardships. Additionally, community-based initiatives are often implemented to strengthen resilience and establish support networks, enabling individuals to rebuild their lives amidst chaos. The integration of culturally sensitive practices is crucial, as it acknowledges Ukraine's distinct historical and social context, thereby enhancing therapeutic outcomes.

These interventions seek not only to alleviate immediate psychological distress but also to promote long-term healing and recovery for those affected by the war. Furthermore, emotion-focused coping strategies, as highlighted by Lazarus and Folkman, are essential in managing negative emotions such as anxiety, while existential therapy addresses the deeper impacts of trauma on meaning, mortality, and identity. Therapists may also incorporate mindfulness techniques to improve recovery outcomes following war-related trauma.

Conclusion

The victims of the war in Ukraine, encompassing civilians, children, and combatants, are enduring significant psychological distress and emotional turmoil. This suffering stems from various traumatic experiences, including forced displacements, witnessing horrific acts of violence, and direct exposure to combat situations. The psychological impact of these experiences can leave deep, lasting scars that often require extensive time and support to heal.

The effects of trauma are not confined to the individuals who experience it; they can also be transmitted across generations, affecting the mental health and well-being of future descendants. Consequently, it is essential to implement culturally sensitive approaches to trauma healing and resilience-building for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Such initiatives are vital not only for individual recovery but also for fostering a healthier, more resilient community in the long term.

 

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