PSYCHOLOGICAL CRISIS OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS: CAUSES, MANIFESTATIONS AND WAYS OF OVERCOMING

Abstract

The article examines the specific features of the development of psychological crisis among internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the context of the full-scale war in Ukraine. Attention is drawn to the fact that forced displacement, loss of home, disruption of social ties, and prolonged exposure to traumatic events create a multifaceted crisis state that affects the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral domains of the individual. The key factors contributing to the emergence of crisis conditions among IDPs are analyzed, including acute stress experiences, uncertainty of the life situation, changes in social status, economic difficulties, as well as a lack of safety and support. The article highlights typical psycho-emotional manifestations of psychological crisis, such as increased anxiety, depressive symptoms, emotional exhaustion, maladaptive behavior, difficulties in decision-making, disorientation in new social environments, and a loss of control over one’s life circumstances. It is shown that prolonged exposure to stressogenic factors may lead to secondary psychological disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic anxiety, and somatization. The study outlines the main approaches to overcoming maladaptive consequences of psychological crisis among IDPs, emphasizing the role of social and psychological support, involvement in psychosocial assistance programs, development of emotional self-regulation skills, and the formation of stress resilience and adaptive behavioral strategies. The importance of restoring a subjective sense of safety, reintegration into the social environment, strengthening social connections, and building a new life perspective is underscored. It is noted that a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach is a necessary condition for successful psychological rehabilitation and long-term adaptation of internally displaced persons.