Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News

Battle Beyond the Frontlines: Ukraine's Citizen Army Tackles Combat Stress

Deputy commander of the 67th Separate Mechanized Brigade Dana Vynohradova speaks with brigade's serviceman with the call sign 'DJ' at a military medical centre in Donetsk region

Hey there, fellow readers! Have you ever considered the mental toll that comes with being a soldier on the frontlines of a crisis? No? Well, let me take you on a journey to Ukraine, where an unseen adversary, combat stress, is wreaking havoc on the citizen army.

In the midst of this ongoing crisis, Ukraine's brave men and women have stepped up to protect their homeland. From the rolling hills to the vibrant cities, these soldiers are fighting a battle that extends far beyond physical combat. They are also battling an internal fight against the war's mental repercussions.

Combat stress, aptly referred to as the hidden enemy, is a monster that slowly eats away at the minds of these soldiers, leaving them emotionally vulnerable. The constant exposure to violence, fear, and loss takes a toll on their mental health, often manifesting in various forms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Head of a unit for combat stress control of the 21st Separate Mechanized Brigade Serhii Rostikov speaks with brigade's serviceman Dmytro in a village near a frontline in Donetsk region
Deputy commander of the 67th Separate Mechanized Brigade Dana Vynohradova speaks with brigade's serviceman with the call sign 'DJ' at a military medical centre in Donetsk region
Service member of the 67th Separate Mechanized Brigade with the call sign 'DJ' attends with his brothers-in-arms a stress control session at a military medical centre in Donetsk region
Serviceman of the 21st Separate Mechanized Brigade Dmytro smokes while he speaks with brigade's head of a unit for combat stress control Serhii Rostikov in a village near a frontline in Donetsk region
Head of a unit for combat stress control of the 67th Separate Mechanized Brigade Oleh Hukovskyi holds a stress control session for service members at a military medical centre in Donetsk region
Injured Ukrainian service members draw during an art therapy session at a medical centre in Vinnytsia

Imagine for a moment, being surrounded by chaos, your heart racing, and your adrenaline pumping, 24/7. How would you cope? It's no surprise that a significant number of Ukrainian soldiers struggle to find solace amidst the chaos. The weight of their responsibilities, coupled with the traumatic experiences they've witnessed, can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed and mentally exhausted.

But don't despair, because Ukraine is not turning a blind eye to this invisible enemy. Recognizing the crucial importance of mental well-being, the country has initiated several programs aimed at supporting its citizen army. These programs focus on providing therapy, counseling, and support networks to soldiers, helping them heal from their internal battles.

Through creative outlets such as art, music, and sports, these brave men and women find solace and a means to express themselves outside the confines of the battlefield. These activities offer a well-deserved respite from the constant turmoil, providing a much-needed escape to recharge their mental batteries.

It's heartwarming to see how the citizens of Ukraine come together to prioritize the psychological well-being of their brave soldiers. Families and friends rally around these unsung heroes, offering a support system and an understanding ear for those who need it the most. The solidarity and love displayed by communities across the nation are a testament to the unwavering spirit of Ukraine.

So, the next time you hear about a crisis, take a moment to contemplate the mental toll it takes on those immersed in its chaos. Combat stress is a very real and often overlooked consequence of war, and it is imperative that we shine a light on this hidden enemy. Just as Ukraine recognizes the importance of mental health support, we should all strive to do the same.

Let us not forget that the brave soldiers on the frontlines are not just warriors; they are human beings fighting against an invisible demon. By acknowledging their struggles and supporting their mental well-being, we can contribute to a brighter, more resilient future for all.

Remember, my dear readers, compassion and understanding can be powerful weapons in the battle against combat stress. Together, let's bring hope and healing to those who need it most.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.