We have found a potential partner for the Artist Mental Health Program!

The situation in Kyiv is desperate. In recent days, Russian attacks have caused severe damage. Last Monday, the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital, the largest of its kind in Ukraine, was hit. At least 30 people died, including four children. Another 117 people, including children, were injured. Residential buildings in cities such as Kryvyi Rih and Pokrovsk were also hit. A major power supplier near Kyiv was heavily damaged as well, further exacerbating the city’s energy supply issues.

Source: Anton Shtuka/AP/DPA

Under these conditions, it was difficult to search for partners. Every response was hard-won, and it felt like an eternity. Despite all the adversities, we managed to find a potential partner for our Artists Mental Health Program. “Небайдуже” wants to cooperate with us.

WHO IS NEBAYDUZHE?

>>Nebayduzhe was founded on April 24, 2022, at the beginning of the Russian escalation, by Alena Shmiga and Brys Kolupaiev, both experienced psychotherapists. The name means something like “Not Indifferent” or “Committed.” The organization includes over 180 psychologists and professionals who provide qualified psychological support to adults and children during the war. They have already responded to 1,300 calls for help from Ukrainians and conducted 7,800 hours of individual and group therapy, including stress management training. The organization consists entirely of volunteers and operates without government funding.

Source: Anton Shtuka/AP/DPA

In our meetings, it became apparent that Nebayduzhe had already worked with several artists, confirming our understanding of the difficult situation they are in. Artists are significantly affected by the psychological impacts of the war. The constant pressure from bombings and the confrontation with death and destruction lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. About a third are struggling with severe mental health issues, including anxiety and depression—see also the articles in >> Med Xpress, >> Verywell Mind. However, even if artists want to seek psychological help, they usually cannot afford it and do not know where to turn. A good contribution on this topic can be found here >> BioMed Central.