A large-scale study conducted by the Child Psychiatry Research Center at the University of Turku, Finland, showed that adolescents who experienced the escalation of the “Russian-Ukrainian war” suffer from alarming levels of psychological stress.
Young people who experienced the entire conflict, starting from the first war in 2014 to the all-out offensive that began in February 2022, showed high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder, depressive symptoms, and suicide attempts.
The study indicates that 16% of Ukrainian adolescents who were exposed to both phases of the “Russian-Ukrainian war” suffer from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, compared to only 1% among their peers who were not exposed to the war. More than 10% of them also suffer from severe depressive symptoms, compared to 3% among their peers who were not exposed to the conflict.
The lead researcher of the study published in JAMA Pediatrics, Professor Andrei Sourander, said:
- “The cumulative impact of a prolonged and escalating war on young minds is profound.”
- “Adolescents experiencing repeated trauma are particularly vulnerable to post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and suicidal tendencies.”
A Generation at Risk
This study is the first of its kind to compare the effects of war on mental health during its different phases.
The researchers used two large-scale surveys conducted in schools during 2016-2017 and 2023-2024 to assess the condition of 5486 adolescents aged between 11 and 17 years from the Donetsk and Kirovohrad regions. By re-surveying after years, the team was able to reveal how psychological damage worsened as a result of the continuation and escalation of the conflict.
High Suicide Rates
These findings go beyond post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, as adolescents who were exposed to the war showed much higher levels of suicide attempts. More than 10% of adolescents who were exposed to both phases of the war reported attempting suicide, compared to 4% among their peers who were not exposed to it.
Sourander explained that:
- “Any exposure, whether during the early phase or the full-scale war, is associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation.”
- “Those who already have mental health problems are more at risk after exposure to war-related trauma.”
The Most Vulnerable Groups
Girls and older adolescents were more likely to report symptoms, as were those who do not live with their biological parents. The breakdown of the family structure added another dimension of psychological stress.
Sourander said: “A safe and supportive family environment is a key protective factor. When war separates families or causes the loss of loved ones, this stability disappears. Adolescents feel insecure, have less support, and are uncertain about the future.”
A Serious Warning
As the full-scale war enters its fourth year, researchers warn that the mental health needs of Ukrainian youth require immediate and sustained attention.
They emphasize that support for adolescents should begin by expanding the scope of available and trauma-informed mental health services, which are capable of meeting the sharply increasing demand.
Strengthening the capabilities of teachers, school staff, and healthcare workers to recognize and respond to war-related psychological stress is also critical.
In addition, researchers highlight the importance of helping families rebuild security and stability after displacement, separation, or loss.
