In response to war, forced migration, loss, and prolonged uncertainty, people may experience stress, fatigue, emotional fluctuations, low mood, sleep problems, or difficulty concentrating. This is a normal response to prolonged strain. Rest, supportive conversations (samtalsstöd), self-regulation skills, and social support are often helpful.

At the same time, it is important to pay attention to your condition if symptoms last longer than two weeks, intensify, or interfere with daily life. Signs that you may need support include persistent anxiety, apathy, panic attacks, sleep or appetite disturbances, isolation, difficulty concentrating, or a feeling of “I can’t cope.” This is not self-diagnosis, but an opportunity to seek help in time.

Where to seek help in Sweden

Mild difficulties (start with non-medical support):

• samtalsstöd through municipality, NGOs, or church

• kurator in the municipality or via Vårdcentral

• social and educational groups, libraries, Ukrainian communities

Prolonged exhaustion or emotional dysregulation:

• contact Vårdcentral for initial assessment and referral to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or specialized services (Trauma/Kris clinics, refugee health services, eating disorder clinics)

Severe mental health conditions or crises:

• psychologist/psychiatrist via Vårdcentral or directly through psychiatric services

• crisis or emergency psychiatry

Immediate help:

• 112

• Mind Suicide Line (90101)

• Bris (116111)

• On-call priest (Jourhavande präst)

Children and adolescents

Support via school health services (kurator, psychologist, nurse), BUP, parental support services in municipalities, and organizations such as the Red Cross and Save the Children.

Accessible psychological support

In Sweden, it is possible to receive lower-cost consultations from psychology students and psychotherapists under supervision of licensed professionals (Svea Psykologerna, Studentpsykologerna, GPI).

Free support for Ukrainians:

• S:t Lukas (3 sessions, language/translation availability should be confirmed)

• National Psychological Association of Ukraine: 0 800 100 102 (+46 20 160 46 46 in Sweden)

Role of the Empower UA project

The project provides supportive conversations (samtalsterapi) in the native language, psychoeducation, and guidance in navigating the Swedish mental healthcare system. We do not replace professional psychological treatment, but we create a safe space to understand one’s condition, find resources, and plan the next steps toward well-being.

The Empower HUB project is implemented by HUG and partners. Co-funded by the European Union through the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).Please note: This is a translation from Ukrainian. Always verify the information on official government resources.