Stress, Helplessness, and Despair. These are the results of an anonymous survey conducted by Teenergizer in May-June 2024 among 2,035 teenagers and young adults from various regions of Ukraine. Respondents came from both large cities and rural areas, with the majority from vulnerable groups, such as youth in frontline zones, internally displaced persons, and those facing economic difficulties.
We aimed to understand the thoughts, feelings, aspirations, and attitudes towards the realities young people encounter daily.
Unfortunately, the results are extremely alarming:
- Over 80% of Ukrainian teenagers and young adults experience varying degrees of stress daily.
- 86% reported physical exhaustion.
- Over 70% of respondents admitted to feeling helpless and desperate.
- 36% are experiencing profound despair.
- 75% of youth expressed concern about the war.
At the same time, nearly half of the respondents noted worries about economic problems:
- 42.4% are concerned about inflation.
- 42.6% are worried about potential unemployment.
- 49.3% are troubled by rising housing costs.
Additionally, 44% of teenagers and young adults are also concerned about climate change, understanding that the future of the planet directly depends on today’s actions.
These figures are a deeply troubling signal and indicate the need for action!
How Can We Help?
Ukrainian youth are a conscious and active part of society that needs support and attention. Providing proper conditions for their development will help them realize their potential and make a significant contribution to Ukraine’s future.
Given the survey results, there is a need to develop comprehensive support programs for youth:
- Assistance programs for those in difficult life circumstances, including internally displaced teenagers and youth from conflict zones.
- Creating opportunities for education and professional development, particularly in IT and entrepreneurship.
Teenergizer has already created a peer-to-peer psychological support program and has been successfully running it for 6 years. In 2023, we provided 26,396 consultations to teenagers and young people across Ukraine and trained 289 peer counselors who help peers deal with stress and anxiety, address their feelings, and receive support on issues related to sexuality, reproductive health, HIV, and more!
We must act to support those who are shaping Ukraine’s future today!
Oleksandra Yatsura, Expert in the development of educational materials CO “Union of adolescents and youth “Teenergizer”
