October 13, 2022 - Today, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Ukraine, with the support of the UK Government and in cooperation with the NGO "Innovative Social Solutions," launched a toll-free confidential and 24/7 psychological support line for men.
It aims to help men stabilise their emotional state, find internal resources to overcome challenging situations and identify problematic aspects of behaviour.
The hotline works 24/7 and is available at the following numbers: 2345 (for ‘Vodafone’ and ‘Life’ mobile networks) and +38 (067) 752 23 45 (for ‘Kyivstar’). Operators are qualified professionals with many years of experience in psychological practice.
Men can reach out with any psychological issues that cause stress. It includes problems at work or relationships, war distress, and anger management difficulties.
The hotline is anonymous - personal data will not be stored.
Mental health is an essential part of well-being. Unfortunately, men often do not seek psychological support due to gender stereotypes or other prejudices. During the full-scale war, the number of stressful situations increased significantly. Therefore, solving problems and overcoming psychological tension are vital.
"Men in Ukraine often live with the idea that they have to solve their problems alone. It is one of the reasons why they do not ask for professional help. According to our survey, 90% of men had no experience seeking professional psychological support. Also, almost every third man finds himself in significant distress, in which he cannot adapt to stressful situations and their consequences," said Olesia Kompaniiets, Programme Manager at UNFPA.
Psychological disorders destroy internal stability and personal relationships. In addition, international studies prove that the number of domestic violence cases grows as the frequency of psychological health problems increases.
Nataliya Miroshnychenko, senior psychologist of the men's psychological support hotline, notes: "The full-scale war, which has been going on for the eighth month, brings people a different spectrum of harmful conditions and drastic behavioural changes. The best way to prevent the development of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, or aggressive behaviour is early recognition of the problem and seeking support. Our team of psychologists is ready to offer psychological aid to men to address their emotions and feelings."
The hotline was set up by UNFPA Ukraine and the NGO “Innovative Social Solutions” as part of the EMBRACE project that is implemented with the support of the UK Government to strengthen response and prevention of gender-based violence in Ukraine.
The UNFPA, United Nations Population Fund, promotes gender equality, reproductive health and rights, and youth empowerment. Together with partners, UNFPA works in 150 countries and territories. Represented in Ukraine since 1997, UNFPA works to achieve equality, combat gender stereotypes, empower women, and ensure equal distribution of housework and men's engagement in responsible fatherhood.
