Researchers from the Department of Public Health at the Academic and Research
Medical Institute and the Centre for Social Research at Sumy State University, together with a team of scientists from the Institute of Epidemiology, Prevention and Biostatistics at the University of Zurich (Switzerland), have launched a study ” Mental Health Assessment of the Population”.
The aim of the research project is to study the psycho-emotional state of Ukrainians and assess the impact of the war and the post-war period on their mental health. The study will focus on a range of mental health issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), alcohol consumption and other common conditions that are usually especially prevalent in countries that are affected by war. The study will analyse the relationship between mental health status and social factors, behaviour, attitudes to health and the level of healthcare provision. The findings will be used to inform policy makers, healthcare professionals and mental health organisations in Ukraine and Switzerland to develop interventions and support services for people struggling with mental health issues.
The research project will last for two years and will include 8 waves of surveys. It is expected that about 20,000 people will take part in the study. Most of the participants (about 17’000) will be people who currently live in Ukraine. Two smaller groups (approximately 1’500 participants each) will consist of Ukrainians living in the canton of Zurich and people from the general population of the canton of Zurich (control group). The recruitment of participants is currently underway.
The results of this study will be used to develop recommendations and solutions for policy makers, international organisations and other stakeholders to develop effective psychological assistance for Ukrainians. More information about the study and real-time results is available at https://www.map-studies.ch
