Unicef estimates that 1,5 million children are at risk of depression, anxiety, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and other illnesses associated with mental health.
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More than 5 million children have suffered disruptions to their school education, 2 in 3 Ukrainian refugee boys and girls are not enrolled in the host country's school system, and more than 2.300 primary and secondary schools have been destroyed in the country invaded by Russia.
“That means 365 days where children spent their birthdays huddled together in shelters instead of at home with their loved ones. 365 days where they had to adapt to life in other countries instead of playing with their friends. 365 days in which children hoped that life would soon 'return to normal',” reflects the statement.
Although Ukrainian children and families have shown tremendous resilience, the psychological wounds of this war may, in fact, scar them for the rest of their lives.
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They continue to face the fear, anxiety and pain associated with the loss of loved ones, separation from family, forced displacement, isolation.
In an interview with Italy's Channel 5, Pope Francis stated that “taking away a child's smile means… a tragedy! “.
(Source: Unicef and Vatican News)
See also:
War in Ukraine: everything you need to know about the conflict!
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