An exhibition “Mental Health in a Time of War” at Almedalsveckan 2025
At Almedalsveckan 2025, the interactive exhibition “Mental Health in a Time of War”, a collaboration between Insamlingsstiftelsen Sverige–Ukraina (ISSU) and RePower, invited the public into an experience exploring the invisible psychological cost of war.
Through black-and-white portraits of Ukrainian frontline medics, captured before and after their participation in RePower’s 10-day psychological recovery program, and the premiere screening of ISSU’s “SAY IT!” educational film series on communicating with those affected by war trauma, the exhibition offered visitors a chance to engage deeply with the emotional aftermath of conflict. Each element was curated to foster reflection, emotional insight, and open dialogue, allowing guests to confront the human dimension of resilience.
Mental Health as National Security
Right now, nearly 70% of Ukrainians report psychological suffering due to the ongoing war. The trauma extends far beyond the battlefield, affecting civilians, medical workers, and communities across the country.
This data, echoed throughout the exhibition, underscores a vital truth: mental health is not a secondary concern. It is central to personal survival, civil stability, and national security. Without addressing the psychological toll of war, the long-term ability of a society to recover, rebuild, and defend itself is deeply compromised.
Collaboration, Support, and Shared Commitment
We’re deeply grateful to Minister of Difence Pål Jonson for his supportive words, and to our partners: Lumell Associates, BOLIST, Popup Works, Shiftwave, Trinetix, and NPA, for making this space for awareness and resilience possible.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our incredible volunteers, whose dedication and care brought the entire experience to life.
Looking Ahead
This exhibition was just one step. The psychological wounds of war are deep, but not beyond healing. Through continued dialogue, awareness, and collaboration, we can begin to reduce stigma, encourage recovery, and center mental health in the conversation around conflict and resilience.
We invite you to stay informed as the “SAY IT!” project moves toward public distribution in the nearest future.