Mental health providers (MHPs) in conflict zones are essential in supporting individuals, families, and communities traumatized by war and disruption of basic needs. Exposure to such suffering puts MHPs at high risk for compassion fatigue (CF), compromising their well-being and effectiveness, and leading to burnout and reduced care quality. This project aims to understand and mitigate CF among MHPs in Israel and Ukraine through a two-phase study. Phase 1 assesses CF levels along with risk and protective factors using a mixed-method cross-sectional design, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Phase 2 pilots the Global Collective Peer Support Program, an online peer mindfulness practice with resilience training and Mind-Body Skills Group work, using a randomized controlled trial to evaluate its impact on reducing CF and improving well-being. Conducted with the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, the program emphasizes the mind–body–spirit connection in relieving secondary trauma. This project will provide insights and strategies to support MHPs,
enhance their resilience, and improve mental health services in conflict zones. By creating a global peer support system, we can empower MHPs to face the challenges of working in war zones, enhance care quality, and promote community healing and recovery.
