Psychological aspects of veterans' professional integration: challenges and strategies

Abstract

The full-scale war in Ukraine has led to the emergence of new challenges that were previously unknown to our society. One of these challenges is the professional integration of war veterans. Promoting the employment of war veterans should be a key part of the strategy of transition from military career to civilian life. Professional integration in the future will, on the one hand, contribute to the ability of war veterans to meet their needs and self-realise in various spheres of public life, and on the other hand, contribute to the restoration and development of Ukraine as a whole and a particular community in particular. The protracted nature of Russia's armed aggression is leading to an increase in the number of Ukrainian defenders who will soon have the status of "war veterans". Military operations are worsening demographic indicators, and the number of disabled people of working age is growing. These realities in Ukraine make it inevitable that there will be significant losses of labour force and a deterioration in its quality. The article explores the complex psychological aspects that arise in the process of professional integration of war veterans. It examines the key challenges that veterans face when returning to civilian life and the labour market, and suggests strategies and approaches to overcome these obstacles. The authors analyse the psychological consequences of military service and the impact of stressful situations on veterans' mental health. They consider the issue of adaptation to new living conditions, including changes in work, social interactions and family relationships. In addition, the article highlights the importance of psychological support and psychotherapeutic methods for veterans during the transition to civilian life. It suggests various strategies that contribute to successful integration, such as vocational training, psychological counselling and social support. The article aims to raise awareness and understanding of the psychological challenges faced by war veterans during professional integration and provide specific recommendations for their successful overcoming.