War, Researchers, and Anxiety: Evidence from Ukraine

Abstract

The ongoing war in Ukraine has significantly impacted the mental health of academic researchers, with anxiety emerging as a predominant issue. This study assessed the prevalence and severity of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among Ukrainian researchers during conflict, considering factors such as gender, age, migration status, scientific degree, and job title. The findings revealed that 44.3% of participants experienced moderately severe to severe anxiety, with migration due to the full-scale war being a significant predictor of higher anxiety levels. Notably, male researchers exhibit higher anxiety levels than their female counterparts, contrary to typical peacetime trends, suggesting that wartime responsibilities and societal expectations may play a crucial role. The data underscore the need for targeted mental health support, particularly for displaced researchers, and highlight the importance of developing gender-specific interventions. These insights are vital for informing policies and support programs to enhance researchers' mental health and productivity in conflict zones, ensuring the continuity and quality of scientific research during and after the war.