![]() ![]() This global mental illness crisis is exasperated in humanitarian emergencies where historically mental health support is not a top priority in humanitarian response. Suicide rates have also increased, and maternal mental health and maternal deaths due to suicide have become major concerns for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers. Globally, the world is reckoning with the devastating mental health implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has amplified existing mental illness and sparked growing levels of anxiety and depression. Reports from Ukraine tell us that people are suffering from intense fear, constant stress, persistent worry, hopelessness, and panic attacks. Shockingly high numbers of rape and other forms for gender-based violence have been reported, and supply chain disruptions and diminishing food supplies are adding to the trauma Ukrainians face. We heard details of the deaths of expectant mothers and of babies born too soon. ![]() ![]() The whole world saw images of maternity wards targeted by Russian forces and of pregnant women covered in blood. I spoke with her about the lasting effects of conflict, trauma, and displacement on the health of Ukrainian women and girls.Īt the start of the conflict, UNFPA estimated that 80,000 Ukrainian women were due to deliver a child in the upcoming three months – a timeline now surpassed. Henia Dakkak, Head of Policy and Liaison Unit, Humanitarian Unit, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), is currently living in Moldova to support the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Less visibly, Ukrainians are confronting severe emotional distress and trauma.ĭr. They also face escalated maternal and newborn mortality rates stemming from lack of services and diminished care, as well as injuries and trauma due to the ongoing conflict. Among those most impacted are Ukraine’s women and girls, who have a greater chance of experiencing gender-based violence, exploitation, and trafficking. ![]() More than 6 million refugees have left Ukraine, another 8 million Ukrainians are internally displaced. Ukraine and its people will feel the effects of the Russian invasion for years to come. This article was originally published as part of the summer 2022 issue of the Wilson Quarterly: Ripples of War. ![]()
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