Rising consumption of antidepressants in Russia has reached unprecedented levels due to the ongoing war and its psychological toll on the population, according to reports.
A significant increase in the use of antidepressants has been reported in Russia, with sales surpassing 22.3 million packages valued at approximately 229 million euros in 2025 alone, as highlighted by the British publication The Telegraph. The mental health crisis, exacerbated by years of war, has prompted many Russians to stockpile medications, leading to concerns over shortages of popular drugs like Prozac and Zoloft. Sales have reportedly doubled since 2022, reflecting a deepening crisis in mental health amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The impact of the war initiated by Russia against Ukraine four years ago has not only devastated the lives of countless Ukrainians but also profoundly affected the Russian populace. The conflict has resulted in the loss of hundreds of thousands of Russian lives and contributed to a broader suppression of dissent within the country. Experts emphasize that the Kremlin's authoritarian grip has fostered a culture of fear that prevents people from seeking help or discussing their mental health openly, leading to increased medication use as a coping mechanism.
According to Stanislav Stanskikhinin, a Russian affairs expert interviewed by The Telegraph, the environment resulting from the war has created dire psychological repercussions for many Russians. As the state continues to exert control over public discourse, the alarmingly high rates of antidepressant consumption serve as a stark indicator of the mental health crisis facing a nation grappling with fear and uncertainty, casting a long shadow over the future of Russian society as it seeks to navigate the ongoing challenges.
