Psychosocial support in Ukraine

Context

Many Ukrainian communities have been hosting internally displaced people (IDPs) since Russia’s war of aggression began in February 2022. Consequently, health care and social protection systems need to adapt their services to the growing demand.

The elderly, women, children, young people and war veterans are hit hardest by the supply shortage. The challenges with regard to mental health and the wellbeing of individuals, groups and communities in the affected regions are also making it hard to create future prospects in the affected regions.

Objective

Needs-based psychosocial care for IDPs and residents in selected host communities in Ukraine has improved.

Approach

Since 2014 and 2015, approaches largely from humanitarian aid have been tested in the crisis regions. They have been implemented throughout the country since February 2022. The project employs these approaches and mainstreams them in local structures.

The project primarily promotes the establishment and development of psychosocial care structures within local civil society initiatives, and professional skills. For example, the project cooperates with universities to supplement the regular curricula with a postgraduate course based on international standards. Knowledge learned is linked more closely to practical elements. This aims to improve psychosocial care for the population in the long term.

Last update: March 2023