3 years supporting Ukraine: Urgent need for psychological aid
21.02.2025
Reading time
2 minutes
After 3 years of war, humanitarian needs in Ukraine remain critical, with nearly 13 million people still requiring assistance. War takes a toll on mental health — 77% of patients in mobile clinics run by Polish Medical Mission (PMM) report needing psychological support. PMM is raising funds to launch a psychological therapy clinic in Kharkiv region.
Despite ongoing conflict, damage and civilian suffering persist. In 2024-2025, homes, schools, and hospitals continue to be bombed daily. WHO confirmed over 2,200 attacks on healthcare since February 2022. Civilian casualties exceed 10,000, with 78% near the front line.
– More evacuations are needed due to attacks. Our medics are busy at a transit point for evacuees in Kharkiv – says Małgorzata Olasińska-Chart, PMM Humanitarian Aid Director – We also support those who remain, mainly the elderly and disabled.
25% of Ukrainians are over 60, alongside vulnerable groups like disabled individuals and pregnant women. PMM prioritizes these groups, supporting neonatal units with training and medical equipment that has helped thousands of newborns. The elderly receive aid near front lines.
– Our mobile clinics in Kharkiv and Sumy regions provide medical care and prescriptions to those near the front – Olasińska-Chart adds – 3 out of 4 patients need psychological help. We are fundraising to open a mental health clinic to meet this demand.
UN data highlights the mental health crisis—10 million Ukrainians struggle with war trauma, leading to psychosis, depression, panic attacks, fear, aggression, and self-harm. The new PMM clinic will serve 10 locations in Kharkiv region biweekly, offering online therapy, individual and group sessions. Staffed by a psychologist and therapist, it will refer severe cases to specialists. A special program will support women facing domestic violence.
