IMPACT OF STRESS FACTORS ON UKRAINIAN WAR VICTIMS IN THE COUNTRY AND ABROAD

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to estimate the frequency of the most probable stress factors and behavioural disorders based on the our own survey results among Ukrainians in accordance with the place of residence. The study was conducted from January to August 2023 and included 160 participants, divided into 3 groups: 1 group – those who remained in their hometown (n=80), 2 – internally displaced people (n=49), 3 – participants, living abroad (n=31). A deterioration in the quality of sleep and nutrition was often found among patients in group 2 and 3, common stress factors in these groups included loss or change of job and low socialization. In group 1, sleep disturbances were caused by traumatic experience, changes in work and its conditions affected the frequency of smoking, alcohol abuse and the quality of nutrition. In order to reduce the severity or eliminate behavioural risk factors, special attention should be paid to overcoming the consequences of traumatic experiences among people who remain in their hometown, to integrating internally displaced persons into society, and to immediate providing psychological support to people living abroad.