Wartime psychological stressors: proliferation and effects among the Ukrainian population

The article examines the impact of various wartime stressors on the mental health of the Ukrainian population. The psychological state of the population is assessed through indicators of psychological distress. A review of wartime stressors identified in previous research is presented, forming the basis for the authors’ proposed list of stressors (28 in total) encountered by the Ukrainian population. Through the empirical evaluation of these stressors, 12 general groups of stressors were identified: 1) experiences of being in dangerous situations; 2) lack of essential services (broadly defined); 3) challenges related to relocation to new permanent residences; 4) material hardships; 5) prolonged absence from home and separation from family; 6) discrimination, lack of family support, and moral dilemmas; 7) conflicts with family and others, exacerbated by the war; 8) health issues, both personal and familial; 9) the threat to one’s own life or the lives of family members as a probability; 10) large-scale negative effects (such as distressing news and issues with basic utilities); 11) traumatic memories, particularly of mass panic; 12) the burden of responsibility for others. Using a generalized analytical model (developed through multiple regression: F = 34.8; df = 14; p-value < 0.001; R2 = 14.6%), seven specific stressors were found to have the most significant impact on respondents’ psychological distress: 1) lack of family support when needed; 2) the necessity of engaging in morally condemnable actions due to severe circumstances; 3) discrimination based on social group affiliation; 4) memories of past stressful experiences and corresponding negative emotions; 5) significant financial or material losses; 6) health issues affecting family members; 7) emotional distress caused by exposure to media (radio, TV, internet).