Children's mental health remains one of the most vulnerable areas during a full-scale war. Children's stress levels have increased by 101% in the past year.
In the fall of 2024, according to Rating Group and UNICEF, 271% of Ukrainian children had high or elevated levels of stress. In October 2025, this share increased to 371%.
The highest rates were recorded among girls aged 10-13 – 40% of them experienced increased emotional stress. Experts note that this age is one of the most vulnerable during the period of war upheavals, as adolescents are clearly aware of the danger, but do not yet have developed mechanisms for overcoming stress. Negative emotions are becoming more common: some children experience increased feelings of disappointment, anxiety, and fatigue.
The study also shows a clear connection between the emotional state of children and adults. In one in five families, the dominant feelings of parents and children coincide - most often it is anxiety. Adult anxiety is often transmitted to the child, increasing his own stress.
Experts emphasize that children who regularly communicate with their parents about their experiences cope better with psychological stress. Such children have half the stress level than those who do not share their emotions. Favorite activities also play a big role: hobbies, creativity, sports help reduce anxiety and restore internal balance.
Children who have active interests outside of gadgets demonstrate the highest stress resistance. Regular sports or joint activities with parents are the best way to reduce stress, while excessive use of a phone or computer, on the contrary, reduces the ability to adapt.
The mental health of children during wartime directly depends on the atmosphere in the family, the level of anxiety of parents, and access to a stable safe space.