Emergency medical care in case of emergency conditions caused by the mental state of the victim (lecture)

The current life of Ukrainians related to the Russian-Ukrainian war can lead to various changes in mental health, both in the military and civilian population. This is especially true for children and older people. Gradually, since the beginning of the war, people have adapted to the bombing and raids by Shahed drones. Initially, there was stress and unpleasant feelings, but they quickly passed if there were no heavy losses or significant destruction. However, over time, adaptive reactions fail and an acute or chronic mental health disorder develops, which can lead to unpredictable actions of the victim, to disorders of the functional state of most organs and systems, especially the heart and brain. Mental health disorders can manifest as anxiety, panic, depression, delirium, psychosis, which can be acute and chronic. Cerebrovascular and cardiovascular complications can include syncope and crisis states, heart rhythm disturbances, high blood pressure, and more severe complications such as stroke and heart attack. In the case of an acute condition, it is extremely important to help yourself (take sedatives), if necessary, help the victim, call the EMS, recognise warning signs in time, and evacuate anyone who cannot maintain mental stability. If there is a history of mental health instability (stress, illness), severe emotional decompensation can make the scene dangerous for the victim and others. EMS workers and others should always consider whether these mental disorders may have a physi­cal component. It should be remembered that under the influence of stressful situations, people with dementia may deteriorate or decompensate.