New Mental Health Pilot Aims to Support Veterans and Families
The Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation has launched a pilot programme to improve mental health support for veterans and their families. The initiative includes specialised psychological services, early distress detection, and emergency crisis care across regional branches. The foundation’s Khabarovsk branch now runs the Women’s Club project, designed for wives and mothers of fallen or missing servicemen. An experienced psychologist leads the group, using tailored techniques to help participants process grief and adjust to life after loss.
Clinical and educational psychologists are available at regional offices, offering support during medical rehabilitation, sanatorium stays, and treatment at federal medical centres. Social coordinators at the foundation receive training to spot early signs of distress and direct individuals to specialists when needed. In collaboration with the Emergencies Ministry, the foundation is also developing a unified emergency support system. This network will provide immediate assistance to veterans in acute emotional crisis or those struggling after combat experience. All individuals seeking help are advised to begin with an initial consultation from a medical psychologist.
The programme expands access to mental health care for veterans and their families. Psychological support is now integrated into medical rehabilitation, regional clinics, and specialised projects like the Women’s Club. Early intervention and emergency services form key parts of the foundation’s approach.
