THE ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGISTS IN IMPLEMENTING A COMPREHENSIVE MEDICALPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR REFUGEES: EXPERIENCE AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukrainians have demonstrated their resilience and strength. However, regardless of how strong a person considers themselves, these events still affect their mental state, even if they see themselves as very tough [7]. Based on the analysis of a large amount of scientific data, it can be argued that the issue of providing medical and psychological assistance to refugees is extremely relevant and has significant medical and social importance. However, many important issues related to the diagnosis and determination of corrective and rehabilitation approaches to identify and eliminate adverse changes in the psycho-emotional sphere of refugees remain insufficiently studied. The aim of the work is to analyze the system of medical and psychological assistance for refugees who have been affected by military actions during Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Methodology. The survey involved citizens of Ukraine who became refugees as a result of the war from all regions, voluntarily participating through a survey, with a total of 70 people, aged 18 to 65 years – 50 people, and 20 people aged 10 to 17 years, with an average age of 39 years. The distribution of refugee responses to the question «Do you consider it necessary to consult a psychologist in case of feeling anxious, worried, depressed, etc.?» was analyzed. Scientific novelty. The conducted analysis revealed a significant impact of medical and psychological rehabilitation on the affected individuals and the role of psychologists in implementing this program. The article summarizes scientific and methodological sources on the peculiarities of the role of psychologists in providing medical and psychological assistance to refugees due to the war in Ukraine. The components of the system for developing mental health and psychosocial support that promote self-help, adaptation, and resilience to stress factors in the affected individuals are described. An example of organizing medical and psychological assistance for children and adults in this group is provided, which includes first psychological aid and activities aimed at enhancing psychosocial resilience to stress. This includes strengthening the role of positive activities, developing skills to manage psychological reactions, supporting positive thinking, and restoring social connections [5, 14]. Conclusions. Therefore, defining the goals and role of psychologists in medical and psychological assistance (e.g., identifying sources of distress, working with maladaptive coping strategies, psychoeducation on self-help methods in crisis states, etc.) is an important and relevant issue.