Introduction: Since the beginning of the conflict, the Ukrainian population has been facing pressing and widespread mental health needs. A large proportion of Ukrainians recently reported stress and severe nervousness, while a substantial share of individuals affected by conflict typically experience mental health disorders. The current national system relies heavily on inpatient psychiatric hospitals, with limited community-level access points. Significant shifts are underway, including the expansion of community-based multidisciplinary mobile teams that provide care for moderate to severe mental health conditions, as well as a growing private mental health sector. These developments highlight the need for a holistic approach to strengthen Ukraine's mental health workforce.
Purpose: Our aim is to present the development of a model of interdisciplinary training in mental health that prepares future professionals to respond to the modern challenges facing Ukraine, particularly those emerging during post-war reconstruction and long-term development.
Method: This model is being developed within the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Ukrainian Catholic University, whose mission extends beyond academic training to serving the Ukrainian people. The faculty offers several degree programs and non-degree initiatives, and it provides mental health services to the university and city community. Building on recent legislative progress in Ukraine promoting interdisciplinarity in both education and community services, the proposed model will be applied to students in physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychology, and social work. The process involves identifying shared competencies, integrating learning experiences across programs, and creating opportunities for collaborative practice.
Results: Recent national advancements and the existing structure of the Faculty provide favorable conditions for implementing interdisciplinary education. Preliminary steps suggest strong feasibility and alignment with current health system reforms.
Conclusions: The next step is to translate this strategic approach into a fully implemented interdisciplinary university training model, supporting the development of a competent mental health workforce for Ukraine's recovery and future growth.