The war in Ukraine leaves visible destruction, but the hidden mental toll is profound. Ukrainian soldier Artem Lykhozhon, 25, bears these invisible wounds after three years as a prisoner of war in Russia.
A Soldier’s Emotional Struggle
Back home for five months, Lykhozhon battles deep psychological scars. “We had to shut off all emotions,” he shared. Reuniting with his family, a moment he longed for, brought no joy.
“They were thrilled to see me, and I was glad too, but I felt nothing,” he said. “I felt bad for seeming distant, but I was numb.” His experience reflects the heavy emotional burden carried by many survivors of war.
Rehabilitation Through Innovative Therapy
Lykhozhon is receiving care at the Unbroken National Rehabilitation Centre in Lviv, a facility dedicated to mental health recovery. Specialists there use neurofeedback therapy to aid his healing. During sessions, sensors on a special cap monitor his brain activity.
Lykhozhon focuses on a dot within a circle on a screen green when he succeeds, yellow when his focus slips. This technique trains the brain to self-regulate, easing stress-related symptoms and boosting well-being, according to experts in neuroregulation.
Supporting Thousands in Crisis
The Unbroken Centre has become a lifeline for Ukrainians, treating around 24,000 patients over the past four years, from soldiers to civilians.
The war’s trauma has disrupted neural pathways in many, but the centre’s mental health team works to restore them.
“We’ve seen the scale of suffering,” said Oleg Bereziuk, head of the centre’s mental health unit. “Our goal is to help patients rebuild.”
Rebuilding Lives After Trauma
While returning to their pre-war selves may be impossible, the centre focuses on helping patients forge new paths. Bereziuk emphasized finding simple, effective tools to restore brain plasticity and growth.
“We aim to use the best methods to help patients heal and adapt,” he said. These efforts offer hope for those navigating the lasting effects of conflict.
A Growing Need for Mental Health Support
The Unbroken Centre’s work highlights the urgent need for mental health care in war-torn Ukraine.
By combining innovative therapies with compassionate care, it supports thousands in reclaiming their lives. Lykhozhon’s journey, though challenging, shows the potential for recovery even after profound trauma.
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