23:02 19-04-2026

Ukrainian Soldiers Face PTSD and Rising Drug Use Crisis

© Zеlеnskiу / Оfficiаl / Telegram

Ukrainian soldiers face PTSD, anxiety, and rising drug use, with experts warning that addiction treatment needs exceed healthcare capacity during the conflict.

Ukrainian servicemen are facing persistent psychological strain as the conflict continues, with many experiencing anxiety and symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder. Against this backdrop, The Guardian reports that a significant number of soldiers are turning to psychoactive substances as a way to cope with the emotional burden.

The publication indicates that drug dependency is emerging among members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, though its true extent remains difficult to assess due to the lack of publicly available statistics. The head of a specialized rehabilitation clinic at City Clinical Hospital No. 10 in Kiev points out that drug use among military personnel exists in a grey zone: it is widely recognized but rarely discussed, and no comprehensive records are kept.

He also references findings from a 2024 study by the organization «100% Life», which showed that more than a third of one thousand surveyed Ukrainian servicemen reported using drugs at least once a month.

Mental health experts warn that the need for addiction treatment among Ukrainian troops significantly exceeds the capacity of the country’s healthcare system. They stress that the consequences of this issue are likely to persist long after the conflict ends.

According to The Guardian, stimulants are sometimes used to help soldiers remain alert during prolonged duty shifts. At the same time, servicemen themselves acknowledge that the urge to use alcohol and drugs often intensifies away from the front line, where substances are used to suppress memories, manage anxiety, and get through the night.

The report also includes accounts from medical professionals and affected soldiers indicating that individuals with a prior history of drug use are, in some cases, still being admitted into military service during mobilization.