MENTAL HEALTH OF STUDENTS: NEED FOR SUPPORT IN WARTIME

Abstract

Introduction. The war in Ukraine has become a significant additional stressor for most students. The purpose of this publication is to identify the need for support and protection of the mental health of higher education students during a military conflict, as well as to meet this need.

Methods. The readiness of participants in the educational process to seek help from mental health professionals was studied. Barriers and stigmas that prevent students from receiving timely qualified help, as well as the availability of psychological services at universities, were analyzed. The research was conducted using online surveys and focus groups. The online survey was conducted in two stages and covered 2,511 students from 17 universities in Ukraine.

Results. The study revealed signs of worsening in the mental health of the majority of respondents and a small number of requests for qualified help from them. It was found that most often students resolved their psychological problems on their own or sought support from family, friends, and close ones.

Conclusions. A focus group study involving 40 students and teachers allowed for a deeper understanding of the need for psychological support for the mental health of higher education students, identifying certain barriers and stereotypes that prevent them from seeking specialized help. The available options for receiving psychological help were identified, and suggestions for providing and improving psychological support services were studied. Implementing the results obtained into the practice of Ukrainian universities will improve the effective psychological support of students during their studies in wartime to maintain their mental health.

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