The experience of war, forced relocation, adaptation to a new country, and constant anxiety for loved ones in Ukraine all leave deep scars on the soul. If you feel apathy, constant anxiety, panic, cannot sleep, or conversely, lack the strength to get out of bed — please know that this is a normal reaction to abnormal circumstances. Taking care of your mental health is not a luxury or selfishness, but an absolute necessity to survive, preserve yourself, and find the strength to build a new life. Asking for help is a sign of strength. In this article, we have gathered proven resources where Ukrainians in Germany can receive support.
Where to Start? Your Family Doctor (Hausarzt)
In the German healthcare system, your family doctor (Hausarzt) is the first and main point of contact. They are your guide who will help you navigate. Consult them, even if the problem seems “invisible” to you.
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What they can do: Listen to you, assess your condition, issue a sick note (Krankschreibung) if you are unable to work, prescribe basic sedatives or antidepressants, and most importantly, issue a referral (Überweisung) to a psychotherapist.
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Important: All conversations with the doctor are strictly confidential (Schweigepflicht). This information will not go anywhere and will not affect your residency status.
Quick and Free Help: Where to Turn Right Now
Finding comprehensive psychotherapy in Germany can take a long time. Fortunately, there are many projects and services offering quick, free, and often anonymous help in Ukrainian or Russian.
1. Hotlines (for urgent conversation)
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Krisenchat Ukraine: Free, anonymous, and 24/7 support for young people up to 25 years old via WhatsApp or SMS. Psychologists provide consultations in Ukrainian and Russian.
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Telefonseelsorge: A helpline for anyone in crisis. Anonymous, 24/7. Numbers: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222. Consultations are mainly in German, but sometimes English-speaking staff are available.
2. Counseling Centers (for advice and referrals)
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Socio-psychiatric services (Sozialpsychiatrischer Dienst - SpDi): Available in every city or district. They provide free consultations and assistance in acute crisis situations. Search on Google for “Sozialpsychiatrischer Dienst + your city”.
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Counseling from Caritas, Diakonie, AWO: These large charitable organizations have migrant counseling centers (Migrationsberatung) where you can be advised on where to turn with your problem.
The Official Path: Psychotherapy Covered by Insurance (Krankenkasse)
This is the path to deep trauma processing with a professional psychotherapist, fully paid for by your public health insurance.
Steps:
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Obtain a referral (Überweisung) from your Hausarzt (not always mandatory, but recommended).
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Find a psychotherapist who works with public insurance and has available slots. You can use the number 116 117 or the website 116117.de to book an initial consultation (Psychotherapeutische Sprechstunde).
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Undergo a few trial sessions (Probatorische Sitzungen).
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Submit an application to your health insurance fund for therapy coverage.
Let’s be honest: this path is long. Waiting for an available slot with a therapist, especially a Russian- or Ukrainian-speaking one, can take from 6 months to a year or more. That’s why it’s so important to use the resources from the previous section to get support while you wait.
In Acute Crisis: When Help is Needed Immediately
If you or a loved one is in a life-threatening situation (e.g., suicidal thoughts, acute panic attack), you need to act immediately.
| Situation | Where to Turn | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| Acute crisis, urgent consultation needed, but no direct threat to life | Sozialpsychiatrischer Dienst (search for your city) | Local socio-psychiatric service that can come to your home or see you the same day. |
| Severe condition that cannot be managed at home | Notaufnahme (emergency room) of the nearest hospital with a psychiatric department (Psychiatrie) | Hospitalization in a crisis state. |
| Direct threat to life to oneself or others | ☎️ Call 112 | Ambulance / Police. |
Conclusion: You Are Not Alone in Your Struggle
Relocation and adaptation against the backdrop of war is a huge challenge for the psyche. You don’t have to go through this alone. There are many opportunities for help in Germany — from an anonymous call to a hotline to full-fledged therapy. The first and most difficult step is to admit that you need support and reach out. Please take this step. You deserve it.