The ongoing war in Ukraine has created not only a humanitarian crisis but also a profound mental health emergency. Millions face trauma, anxiety, and stress-related conditions, while health systems remain under severe strain.

To address these urgent challenges, the European Forum for Primary Care (EFPC) and the EUCOMS Network have joined forces to publish a position paper on the integration of mental health into primary care during health emergencies, with a focus on Ukraine since 2022.

The paper highlights:

• How family doctors, nurses, and community health workers have become frontline mental health responders.
• Ukraine’s innovative “How Are You?” national mental health program.
• Lessons learned on combating stigma, improving training, and leveraging digital tools.
• Practical recommendations for embedding mental health in primary care across Europe and beyond.

This collaboration underscores that mental health integration is not optional—it is essential for resilience, recovery, and long-term health system sustainability.

Read the full position paper down below: