PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF RESILIENCE AND DEPRESSIVE MANIFESTATIONS AMONG INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS
PDF 50-63 (Українська)

Keywords

resilience
vitality
depression
forcibly displaced persons
internally displaced persons
stress resistance
psychological well-being

How to Cite

Prokofieva, O., & Polishchuk, N. (2026). PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF RESILIENCE AND DEPRESSIVE MANIFESTATIONS AMONG INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS. PSYCHOLOGICAL JOURNAL, 12(3), 50–63. https://doi.org/10.31108/1.2026.12.3.3

Abstract

The article examines the psychological aspects of the relationship between the level of resilience and depressive manifestations in internally displaced persons (IDPs) who found themselves in difficult life circumstances due to the loss of their homes, familiar environment, and social connections. The relevance of the topic is determined by the growing need for effective psychological support for this category of population in the context of the armed conflict

The aim of the research is to identify the psychological characteristics of the process of IDPs’ adaptation to new living conditions, as well as to establish the role of resilience as a protective factor against depressive states. The paper presents an analysis of theoretical sources that describe resilience as the ability of an individual to overcome difficulties, maintain psychological balance, and form self-regulation strategies in stressful situations.

The results of the empirical study showed that most of the respondents demonstrate a desire to adapt, the ability to analyse situations, and seek internal resources through faith, hope, and positive thinking. They are trying to make plans, find a way out of the crisis, and support themselves in difficult situations. This indicates the potential for developing resilience and stress resistance even under high pressure.

At the same time, a significant part of respondents demonstrates reduced life satisfaction and psychological distress. They experience difficulties in building open interpersonal relationships, a tendency to depend on the opinions of others, a low level of independence in decision-making, difficulties in organizing their daily lives, and a feeling of helplessness in the face of circumstances. IDPs aged 55+ are a particularly vulnerable group, as they feel the loss of their usual way of life most acutely. They are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression, which complicates the adaptation process.

The authors emphasize the need for systematic psychological support for IDPs, especially older ones. They recommend the implementation of programs aimed at developing independent thinking and decision-making skills and reducing emotional isolation. It is important to create communities and mutual support groups, as well as adaptation training courses that will help increase resilience and overall psychological well-being.

Keywords: resilience, vitality, depression, forcibly displaced persons, internally displaced persons, stress resistance, psychological well-being.

 

https://doi.org/10.31108/1.2026.12.3.3
PDF 50-63 (Українська)

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Copyright (c) 2026 Olesia Prokofieva, Nadiia Polishchuk