Former POW Stanislav Tarnavskyi finds love and healing after captivity

In Ukraine, following his release from a Russian prison in April 2025, Stanislav Tarnavskyi is working hard to rebuild his life after three years of captivity. His traumatic experiences as a former prisoner of war have left deep psychological scars, but he is determined to embrace life. Support from mental health professionals is crucial for Tarnavskyi and over 5,000 other former POWs, as they grapple with the psychological aftermath of their experiences. The U.N. emphasizes the need for long-term monitoring of these individuals, who suffered severe abuse during their imprisonment, including beatings and starvation. Tarnavskyi's reintegration process is also marked by significant personal events, such as his engagement to Tetiana Baieva, his girlfriend since 2021. He credits her support as vital for keeping him alive during his darkest moments in captivity. Upon his return, Tarnavskyi proposed to Baieva with a bouquet of roses and a ring, affirming their deep bond. However, he struggles to discuss his time in prison, stating he fears being pitied and finds it difficult to talk about his trauma. The psychological impact on former POWs often includes triggers that can evoke painful memories unexpectedly, leading to emotional distress. Professionals like Kseniia Voznitsyna from Ukraine's Lisova Polyana mental health center stress the importance of ongoing psychological care. The goal is to help these veterans reintegrate into society and manage their mental health long-term, as the repercussions of war extend far beyond the battlefield. As the war continues, the challenge of coping with wartime trauma grows. The families also experience adjustments as they support their loved ones in the healing process. Mothers and families have to confront the change in their returning loved ones, who often come back physically healthy yet emotionally scarred. The complexity of reintegration reflects not just on the individuals but also on the broader fabric of Ukrainian society as they navigate the lasting impacts of war, showcasing the resilience required to heal and rebuild.