Invisible Wounds
Navigating mental health challenges and support for adolescent boys and young men
This research report examines the mental health challenges facing adolescent boys and young men affected by the war in Ukraine.
The full-scale war in Ukraine has profoundly disrupted the lives of all Ukrainians, affecting families, communities and social structures both within the country and in host countries such as Poland, Romania, and Moldova. The war has led to mass displacement, endangered lives, health and safety, exposed civilians to violence, and severely disrupted education, employment, and essential services.
While much of the humanitarian response has primarily focused on women and children, the mental health and psychosocial support needs of adolescent boys and young men have often remained overlooked. As the war persists, they encounter distinct mental health and psychosocial challenges shaped by displacement, gender expectations, exposure to violence and structural barriers to accessing care. These include restrictive gender norms that discourage help-seeking, movement limitations due to military mobilisation concerns for those over 25, and financial instability limiting access to support.
Boys and men face barriers to mental health services
This research highlights how structural and cultural barriers influence their mental health experiences and aims to provide actionable recommendations to improve service accessibility.
Conducted across Ukraine, Poland, Romania, and Moldova, it draws on qualitative data from adolescent boys and young men, parents, mental health professionals, educators, and humanitarian actors. Although the primary focus of this study is adolescent boys and young men, it also considers broader gender dynamics. It examines how societal expectations around masculinity – such as self-reliance and emotional restraint – affect help-seeking behaviours and service uptake. While this research does not explicitly contrast male and female perspectives, it acknowledges the influence of gender norms on mental health access. Some qualitative findings reflect insights from young women and service providers, highlighting how gender roles shape mental health experiences for boys and young men.
Support required for mental health
Moreover, addressing the mental health needs of adolescent boys and young men is essential not only for their own well-being, but also for their families and communities. Unaddressed psychological distress can contribute to emotional withdrawal and strained relationships. In some cases, unprocessed distress manifests in maladaptive coping mechanisms, potentially perpetuating cycles of violence that negatively impact broader social cohesion.
By identifying these gaps, this research contributes to the development of programmes that are inclusive, trauma-informed and responsive to the unique needs of adolescent boys and young men. Strengthening support systems for this population not only enhances their well-being but also fosters healthier family and community dynamics as Ukraine navigates the ongoing war and its long-term consequences.
Download the report
Executive summary – English
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Executive summary – Ukrainian
632 kb
full report – English
3.19 mb
Categories: Emergencies
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