VINNYTSIA, Ukraine — The first educational and methodological center dedicated to mental health in Ukraine has officially opened in the Vinnytsia region, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to support psychological well-being amid ongoing wartime challenges.
The center, part of the nationwide mental health initiative “How Are You?” spearheaded by First Lady Olena Zelenska, aims to provide a space of trust, recovery, and professional support for individuals struggling with emotional and psychological stress.
“In times of full-scale war, with daily losses, widespread anxiety, and psychological fatigue, taking care of mental health is not only timely—it is absolutely critical,” said Nataliia Zabolotna, First Deputy Head of the Vinnytsia Regional State Administration.
The center is currently operating in a pilot phase, focusing on team formation, adaptation, and the development of support mechanisms for both specialists and the wider community.
According to officials, the facility will serve multiple purposes: offering direct mental health services, training mental health professionals, conducting community outreach, and fostering a broader culture of psychological care.
Zabolotna expressed gratitude to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for fully equipping the center with essential items including furniture, computers, multimedia tools, household appliances, and a portable power station. She also thanked the International Red Cross and the Vinnytsia Regional Organization of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society for furnishing a children’s room with materials tailored for psychological support, and for providing a backup generator to ensure uninterrupted operations during power outages.
“This center is designed to be a place of strength—for those experiencing grief, anxiety, and stress, or simply in need of support,” Zabolotna noted. “It will also act as an educational hub to prepare professionals and cultivate mental health awareness throughout our communities.”
The opening of the Vinnytsia facility follows a growing national focus on mental health services. Earlier, First Lady Olena Zelenska visited the Dnipropetrovsk region, where she toured the Mental Health Center “Return,” which began operating in May.
