More than four years of ongoing conflict is taking a toll on both body and mind. Millions are struggling not only to cope with the consequences of the past winter, but also to hold on to their health, strength, and hope in the face of relentless hardship.

Mental health needs are surging, as more than half of the population (56 per cent) report needing psychosocial support, while only 19 per cent are able to access it. Many people report having experienced traumatic events, yet access to specialised mental health and psychosocial support remains limited.

Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers, therefore, not only provide essential material support but also mental health and psychosocial support that is critical to helping people cope and recover. 

Sometimes it’s just a listening ear: helping people to heal invisible wounds and breaking down the stigmas that often make people wary of seeking out mental health services. At times it means providing a safe place or phone hotlines where people can turn to when they need to talk.

This is why National Red Cross Societies in Ukraine and 24 other European countries have united with the IFRC and the IFRC Psychosocial Support Centre to provide vital mental health and psychosocial support services. Funded by the European Union’s EU4Health initiative, these services include special hotlines staffed by trained specialists who speak Ukrainian. Some of those who offer or who coordinate these services are themselves refugees.