Movember – How Yevhen dealt with the uncertainty of war and conflict

As part of Men’s Health Month, bank information technician, Yevhen Slautenko, shares how the war in his home country, Ukraine, impacted his mental health.

Why Men’s Health Month is important to me

Health and wellbeing matter so much to all of us. It allows us to truly enjoy life instead of dwelling on the negatives.

Men’s Health Month really resonates with me, because I’ve noticed that men often avoid talking about their struggles, thinking they must handle it alone. From my own experience, I know how easy it is to ignore things until they get worse — that’s why I feel so grateful this initiative is getting attention, and I support it wholeheartedly.

How war in my home country impacted me mentally

In 2022, I went through a tough period with depression. I’m from Ukraine, and after the war broke out, being forced to leave home brought a wave of uncertainty, loneliness, and anxiety — things many refugees know all too well.

My mental health took a big hit. From late 2022 through spring 2023, I relied on antidepressants and therapy. Sadly, depression returned in 2024 after losing someone close.

With help from Natalie, an occupational health psychologist, and a renewed focus on gym and swimming, I gradually got better. Natalie gave me the space to open up and talk honestly about what I was going through.

Overcoming depression through family, community and activity

To shift my focus away from sad thoughts, I spend as much time as I can with family and friends.

There’s a small Ukrainian community in Newcastle — we meet up, take walks, and remind each other we’re not alone. Last year I volunteered with a group of Ukrainian doctors in the UK, supporting their work on some amazing projects, including mental health initiatives.

Staying active, going to the gym, running, swimming, and travelling around Britain are things I truly enjoy. My colleagues even gifted me a travel guide, so now my list of places to visit is always expanding.

These things really help, even if I’m not always where I want to be mentally.

Why talking out is so important

Sharing stories like these matters. We all need reminders that appearances can be deceiving, and people who seem perfectly fine might be struggling inside.

Getting the chance to talk openly makes a real difference and lessens that emotional weight. I know first-hand how much these events help others who can’t always ask for support.

Advice for anyone struggling with mental health

If I could leave readers with one thing, it’s this: it’s not good to stay silent about what you’re going through.

Problems won’t solve themselves, and nobody should have to battle alone every day. If you’re feeling burned out, not coping, if each day feels heavier than the last — don’t ignore it, don’t keep quiet, reach out for help.

There’s always a way forward, and it’s up to each of us to take the first step.

Never give up. It’s never too late to make things better. You’re never truly alone on this path.