Panel Discussion “Mental Health During Wartime”

The panel discussion “Mental Health During Wartime”, organized in collaboration with the Ternopil Regional Military Administration, took place on May 30, 2025, as part of Olena Zelenska’s national program “How Are You?”

At a time when war affects every Ukrainian family, mental health has become a top priority.
Fear, exhaustion, loss, and uncertainty — these are the challenges faced by society as a whole today.
Mental health is not a “luxury of peaceful times” but a fundamental human need under prolonged stress.

This was the central theme of the panel discussion, which brought together specialists, officials, and members of the public for an open dialogue and joint search for effective solutions.

Speakers included:

🔹 Olha Yarmolenko – Director of the Department of Health of the Ternopil Regional Military Administration
She presented a systemic view on how the mental health sector is developing in the region, what steps have already been taken, and why this issue is strategically important for the medical community as a whole.

🔹 Olena Venрer – Psychiatrist, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, Narcology, and Medical Psychology at TNMU
She spoke about the psychological challenges faced by both military personnel and civilians, particularly children and adolescents. She emphasized the importance of increasing public mental health literacy and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

🔹 Yurii Mysula – Psychiatrist, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor
He shared his clinical experience, offered practical advice on preventing emotional burnout, and described effective self-help strategies in crisis situations.

💬 During the discussion, participants explored:
▪️ The psychological consequences of war for different population groups
▪️ How to recognize signs of mental exhaustion in oneself and others
▪️ What community-based resources are available and where to seek help
▪️ Why caring for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a form of resilience

This event marked an important step toward building a united front for mental health support — through professional education, partnership, and compassion.

🫶 We sincerely thank all discussion participants for their engagement, professionalism, and willingness to speak openly about complex issues.

Together, we are shaping a culture of psychological support where every person has the right to care, strength, and recovery.