Kyiv, 11 August 2022 – Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety condition caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events, now commonplace in Ukraine. Early signs of PTSD can include strong emotional reactions, reliving painful memories, insomnia, detachment and anxiety.

Experts say early intervention and support from family and close friends can help those suffering from PTSD. To make important information available to those who are able to help, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) worked with the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine to develop a special online course with tips on how to prevent PTSD and how to cope with its first symptoms. The course, supported by the governments of Denmark and Sweden, includes 15 videos, each 5-14 minutes long.

Manal Fouani, acting UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, said the war is depriving millions of people of the sense of safety, security, and confidence and it is critical that people find refuge in professional psychological support to alleviate the impact of these distressing times. “In Ukraine, with the advanced digital systems in place, it is remarkable that the Ministry of Digital Transformation works with psychological experts to avail this professional support online for those who don’t feel safe to get in person” she added. “With the online courses, war affected people can access this knowledge at a time of their choice and in a location of their preference. All they need is to connect”.

Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation and European Integration Valeria Ionan: “We have adapted the Diya.Digital education project to wartime conditions, and are currently launching an educational series on psychological topics.”

This training series follows two earlier UNDP-supported series of educational videos, “Psychological support for civilians: how to help yourself and your loved ones” and “Treating emotional burnout.”

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, Communications Team Leader, UNDP in Ukraine, Yuliia.Samus@undp.org or +38 097 139 1475