Mental support for Mariupol residents: successful cases of psychological resilience shared in Kyiv

A collaborative day "Resilience of One - Resilience of Millions!" was held in Kyiv. The event was held as part of the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Programme "How are you?" initiated by First Lady Olena Zelenska. Among the successful projects of psychological support for Ukrainians during the war is the work of the "I'Mariupol" centres. 

Iryna Shabanova, Director of the Mariupol Health Department, said that psychological support was one of the main requests of Mariupol residents in 2022. That is why, at the initiative of Mariupol Mayor Vadym Boichenko, professional psychologists have started working in all "I'Mariupol" centres. 

"Our psychologists help people overcome anxiety and depression, survive loss and trauma, and adapt to new living conditions. In total, more than 50,000 consultations have already been held," said Irina Shabanova.

Last December, a Mental Health Centre was opened on the basis of the Kyiv medical hub "I'Mariupol. Health". Here, psychologists work together with family doctors of the health hub who have been trained in the course "Management of common mental disorders using the mhGAP guidelines". Medical specialists screen (test) all patients for psychological disorders at the primary level. If necessary, they refer them to a psychologist. The patient receives individual support and treatment. 

Thanks to psychological support, Mariupol residents have seen improvement in their overall health, both physical and psycho-emotional. This helps them adapt to new circumstances and overcome the psychological trauma of war. 

We are planning to expand the project. Namely, to increase the number of patients to 20,000. The emphasis is on supporting veterans and their families, introducing innovative methods of detecting mental disorders. This year, it is planned to open another Mental Health Centre on the basis of the future specialised medical hub "I'Mariupol. Health" in Odesa.