Nearly four years into Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and 11 years since conflict began, the toll on people’s mental health is severe.

Women and girls are disproportionately affected, facing displacement, economic uncertainty, heightened risks of gender-based violence, and the constant pressure of protecting their families during repeated attacks.

Speaking from the capital Kyiv, which suffered deadly strikes last week, and following a visit to the frontline region of Sumy, UN Women’s Representative in Ukraine Sabine Freizer Gunes described both the emotional exhaustion and resilience of women.

She told UN News’s Nathalie Minard that empowering women and restoring a sense of normalcy are crucial steps to help relieve the stress of war.