IMPROVING THE PSYCHOLOGICAL READINESS OF THE LAND FORCES PERSONNEL OF THE ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE TO PERFORM COMBAT TASKS: STRESS RESISTANCE IN PROLONGED CONFLICT CONDITIONS

Abstract

Introduction. The mental readiness of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) servicemen to perform combat tasks has become particularly significant amid the prolonged armed conflict. A critical component of this readiness is stress resilience – the ability of soldiers to maintain psychological stability and effectively carry out duties under the extreme conditions of war. The current phase of the conflict is marked by new challenges, including the widespread use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), cyber threats, and information operations, necessitating a rethinking of traditional mental training methods to address these evolving realities. Purpose and objectives of the article. The purpose of the study is to analyze the criterion «Stress resilience in conditions of prolonged conflict» as a component of the mental readiness of AFU Land Forces servicemen and to develop scientifically based recommendations for its enhancement, considering the specifics of modern warfare. The objectives include: clarifying the concept of stress resilience and its role for soldiers; identifying key factors influencing stress resilience in prolonged conflict; assessing the psychological consequences of prolonged stress; examining the novelty of approaches in the context of the ongoing war; and formulating proposals to improve mental readiness. Results. The article defines stress resilience as a multifaceted characteristic encompassing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions. It is established that prolonged conflict is accompanied by specific stress factors, such as extended combat operations, constant danger, separation from the family, moral dilemmas, physical exhaustion, and information overload. These factors result in significant psychological consequences, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, emotional burnout, and sleep disturbances. The scientific novelty of the study lies in its focus on the unique features of the current war phase, which demand innovative mental training approaches. Proposed improvements include simulation training with virtual reality, stress inoculation training, the integration of mental health monitoring technologies, and support programs for servicemen and their families. These measures will enhance stress resilience and preserve the mental well-being of soldiers.