Doctors and health workers are not immune to the mental health effects of war. Here’s how MSF is responding in Ukraine.
Doctors and healthcare workers, like everyone else, are not immune to the mental toll of war. As the conflict in Ukraine rages on, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is stepping up to provide crucial emotional support.
In towns like Trostianets, where Russian troops were among the first to occupy during the escalation in 2022, the local hospital bore the brunt of the violence. Despite severe damage, the hospital stood strong, a testament to the resilience of its staff. MSF aided in its renovation in 2023, only to see it damaged again this spring. Yet, through it all, the healthcare workers persevere, supported by MSF’s mental health program.
The constant bombardment of frontline areas takes a profound toll on both patients and medical staff. MSF psychologists conduct sessions to help healthcare workers cope with the horrors of war, fostering recovery mechanisms and encouraging them not to suppress their emotions.
In addition to Trostianets, MSF’s mental health program extends to regions close to the front lines, such as Donetsk and Kharkiv. The goal is to ensure that those who care for others receive the care they need themselves.
Through group and individual sessions, MSF psychologists provide tailored support, recognizing the importance of addressing the emotional impact of conflict. The program has already provided over 26,000 individual consultations, demonstrating its effectiveness in reaching those in need.
The toll of war extends beyond emotional pain; it affects physical health as well. MSF emphasizes the importance of mental health, particularly in areas where basic needs are not met due to destroyed infrastructure and ongoing conflict.
Long-term support is essential for those experiencing grief and loss. MSF provides group counseling for women who have lost loved ones, offering a space for shared experiences and healing.
Fortunately, attitudes toward mental health care are shifting, thanks to the advocacy of organizations like MSF. More people are seeking help, and the stigma surrounding mental health is gradually fading.
In the midst of war, MSF remains committed to providing comprehensive healthcare, including vital mental health support. As the conflict persists, their presence offers a beacon of hope for those on Ukraine’s front lines.
Source: Emotional support for health workers on Ukraine’s front lines