Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction: The full-scale war initiated by russia on February 24, 2022, has significantly impacted the mental health of Ukrainian students, causing them considerable stress. Objective: To assess the need for mental health support and protection among Ukrainian students during wartime. Methods: Two online surveys were conducted in 2022 and 2023 to evaluate students’ mental health. The questionnaire covered sociodemographic data, psychological well-being, and mental health support before and during the war. Psychodiagnostic scales used included PC-PTSD-5, PHQ-9, GAD-7, ISI, SCOFF, CAGE, CRAFFT, and PSS. Multivariate logistic regression analysis determined factors influencing the likelihood of seeking professional mental health support. Six focus groups with students and faculty were held in March – April 2024 to identify needs and barriers to psychological and psychiatric assistance, analyzed using thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006). Results: A significant number of students (69.2%) showed signs of deteriorating mental health due to psychological trauma. Traumatic experiences were reported by 67.4% of respondents in 2022 and 91.1% in 2023. The primary source of support was family and friends (39.3% in 2022 and 40.3% in 2023). Many students did not seek support (56.6% in 2022, 54.5% in 2023). At the survey time, 14.7% (2022) and 15.8% (2023) indicated a need for professional help. Conclusions: Barriers and stereotypes that prevent students from seeking help have been identified. Proposals to overcome stigma include psychoeducation, psychological support services, psychological support during education, and stress resilience programs.
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Funders: UNICEF, National Research Foundation of Ukraine, Porticus Foundation, National Research Foundation, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung, Bundesministerium für Gesundheit, Deutsche Krebshilfe, Servier, Vector Stiftung, Gemeinsame Bundesausschuss, Bundesministerium für Familie, Senioren, Frauen und Jugend, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv
OpenAlex ID: W4406807780