As the war in Ukraine lingers on, a silent crisis emerges: severe sleep deprivation among its citizens. Experts warn that the ongoing drone attacks are wreaking havoc on mental health, pushing many individuals to rely on medication for relief.

22-year-old Sofia Tsarenko from Dnipro, once able to unwind with friends, found herself trapped in a cycle of anxiety and sleepless nights. The stress was so overwhelming that even drinking wine failed to provide comfort, leaving her desperate for solutions. Eventually, antidepressants and sleeping pills became her lifeline.

The repercussions of Russia’s invasions extend beyond physical injuries; they inflict severe psychological wound. Individuals statewide are kept awake at night, listening for the ominous sounds of drones overhead, followed by the inevitable explosions. With drone strikes increasingly targeting urban areas, citizens face escalating anxiety levels and more sleepless hours.

Experts describe sleep deprivation as a growing national health emergency, noting its profound impact on mood and overall mental well-being. It's suggested that the chronic lack of sleep not only causes irritability but can also lead to serious mental health issues, showcasing another devastating aspect of the ongoing conflict.