Conversation with Victor, a Ukrainian Psychiatrist

"In any case, their suffering passed through you... their flashbacks, their grief. We are people, not robots. It all affects us."

In December of 2024, Lena Denman talked to Victor Nikitchenko, a mental health professional who treats individuals with PTSD. As they began their conversation, the sound of air sirens filled the air – a reminder as to why Victor treats so many patients.

"Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, our department is engaged in the treatment of military," Victor says, "and unfortunately, the former ones, due to their health conditions." He is referring to veterans who have been severely injured due to fighting.

Victor trained at our 2024 May Mental Health Seminar and is one of the mental health professionals we are supporting through UMCOR's grant funding. He uses the prolonged exposure method to treat the appropriate patients who experience PTSD. He explains that this method has had positive results within his practice.

"Some pessimists believe that PTSD is incurable. I say that fortunately, PTSD has a way back," he says.

We encourage you to watch the full interview with Victor to learn more about the growing mental health crisis in Ukraine. ACHF is actively serving the mental health field in Ukraine and is proud to support the efforts of Victor and his team as they serve their country.

Thank you to our donors and UMCOR - United Methodist Committee On Relief for your support of our mental health initiative and for supporting our closely partnered team of five mental health professionals. Together, we are serving Ukraine in life-changing ways.