A nationwide study published on September 29, 2026, in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology reveals that 31.2% of Ukrainian civilians living in areas controlled by Kiev meet the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD). The research, conducted by the King's College London, University of Manchester, and Berlin's ZOiS, was led by Professor Gwendolyn Sasse's network, KonKoop, with funding from the German Ministry of Research.
The study's findings are based on a representative sample of the adult population and highlight a significant difference between the prevalence of classic PTSD and CPTSD. While 25.2% of participants experience classic PTSD, 6.0% exhibit CPTSD. According to lead author Emma Facer-Irwin, a clinical psychologist, the study's results show that PTSD is more common than its complex form in this national sample.
The researchers conclude that PTSD is a common difficulty among Ukrainian civilians exposed to prolonged and active warfare. The study also identifies that not being in a couple is a factor specifically associated with CPTSD. The research team emphasizes the importance of understanding the prevalence of these disorders for planning immediate and long-term healthcare measures.
The study's authors highlight the human dimension of the project, with two team members being Ukrainian, making the research both urgent and personal. Professor Olga Onuch from Manchester stresses the interdisciplinary approach and adaptation of research methods to the context of war.
The study's findings have significant implications for healthcare policy, particularly given the pressure on Ukraine's healthcare system and uncertainty surrounding future humanitarian aid. Professor Kulyk notes that knowing the prevalence of these disorders is crucial for planning healthcare measures.
However, the researchers acknowledge a limitation in their study, as the data relies on self-reported symptoms, which may influence the responses. A previous study conducted in 2022 among internally displaced Ukrainians reported a lower rate of 21%.
The research team plans to investigate the impact of these traumas on political opinions in future studies. The study's results provide valuable insights into the psychological effects of war on civilians and will inform efforts to address these issues.
Key points
- 31.2% of Ukrainian civilians exhibit symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder or complex post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Classic PTSD affects 25.2% of participants, while complex PTSD affects 6.0%.
- The study's findings have significant implications for healthcare policy and planning in Ukraine.
