The European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ESTSS) condemns the military attack against Ukraine. The last century in Europe was marked by human suffering caused by wars, Holocaust, oppression by totalitarian regimes. ESTSS and the global mental health community are well aware of the devastating and long-term effects of collective trauma on individuals, societies spanning through the generations.
Ukraine people have chosen a path of democracy and peace after decades of suffering under the life of the Soviet regime. Since 2013 this path is disrupted by the ongoing military attacks by Russia which culminated in a major war threatening the lives of the millions of peaceful population and causing profound human suffering. The Ukrainian society has already experienced massive traumas in the past – but the resilient Ukrainian people always coped and revive.
ESTSS is proud to have Ukrainian professionals in our community. We admire the Ukrainian psychotrauma professionals who are working hard in serving their community affected by war. The community was formed back in 2013 exactly to support the Ukrainian population suffering from military aggression then. We believe that the current tragedy will make the Ukrainian society of psychotrauma even stronger as they have to fulfil their mission – to help their society to cope with the devastating consequences of military aggression.
ESTSS supports the people of Ukraine. Over almost three decades ESTSS accumulated vast knowledge on human responses to adversities. We call for action for all of its members to support Ukraine. The ESTSS Task Force dedicated in support Ukraine will provide continuous support in the difficult times for Ukraine.
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Prof. Evaldas Kazlauskas
President of the European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies
