Mental Health: A Priority for Society and the State

Mental health and psychosocial support are key strategic priorities for the Ukrainian Red Cross. Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the demand for psychosocial support has risen dramatically. People are facing crisis situations for which no one can be fully prepared — such as the loss of homes, separation from loved ones, and the direct or indirect consequences of participation in hostilities.

Recently, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (Ukrainian Parliament) adopted Law No. 12030, “On the Mental Health Care System,” which establishes a modern framework for mental health support in Ukraine. The law recognises mental health not only as a medical issue but also as a socially significant area that should be integrated into all aspects of life, including education, employment, social protection, leisure, and more.

This law will help set unified standards, regulate the fragmented system, and ensure quality care for those in need. It was developed with input from experts and with support from the WHO, based on the Target Model of the Mental Health System, which was created as part of the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Programme, “How Are You?” initiated by First Lady Olena Zelenska.

The Ukrainian Red Cross welcomes the adoption of the law and will actively support its implementation. Psychosocial support has been a key strategic focus for us since 2014, and we remain committed to ensuring access to quality care for all those in need.