Russians’ Psychological Well-being Declines Amid Economic Anxiety and War Fatigue
As Russia’s involvement in Ukraine continues, a growing number of Russians are experiencing increased psychological distress, fueled by financial anxieties and diminishing hopes for a swift resolution to the conflict. A February 2026 survey conducted by the Russian Academy of Sciences’ (RAS) Institute of Psychology revealed a significant rise in symptoms associated with depression and anxiety across all socioeconomic groups.
Rising Levels of Distress
The RAS Institute of Psychology’s monitoring study found that 42% of respondents reported symptoms of depression, while 27% experienced difficult-to-control anxiety. 31% of Russians exhibit pronounced anxiety and depressive symptoms, according to the institute. These findings underscore the mounting social strain as the war enters its fifth year and economic uncertainty persists.
Urban Centers and Vulnerable Groups
Residents of cities, particularly large urban centers, reported the most concerning indicators, with nearly half (48%) citing symptoms of depression and 30% reporting anxiety. Young adults aged 25-34, individuals with lower incomes, and those employed in the private sector were identified as the most psychologically vulnerable groups.
Financial Worries Intensify
Two-thirds of respondents (66%) expressed anxiety when considering their finances, an increase from 60% in December 2025. This rise was most pronounced among public-sector workers and residents of major cities. Joint surveys by the institute and state-run pollster VTsIOM indicate that 84% of Russians are concerned about rising prices, a 7-percentage-point increase since September 2025. Fears of an economic crisis have also risen, reaching 74%, up 9 percentage points.
Pessimistic Outlook for the Future
Nearly half of respondents (47%) anticipate a worsening of their family’s financial situation in the coming year, while 53% foresee a deterioration in the country’s overall economic conditions. A majority (60%) believe the continuation of the war is the most likely scenario for 2026. The proportion of Russians who believe the most challenging times are still ahead has increased to 52%, a 7-percentage-point rise since December.
Economic Factors Drive Expectations
The RAS Institute of Psychology noted that rising prices and the impact of growing federal and regional budget deficits—rather than expectations for the war’s end—are now the primary factors shaping Russians’ economic outlook. Only 39% of respondents believe their children will enjoy a better quality of life than they currently do, and 42% hold a negative view of Russia’s economic prospects over the next five years.
About the Russian Academy of Sciences
Founded in 1724 by Emperor Peter the Great, the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) is the highest self-governing scientific establishment in Russia. It consists of a network of research institutes and scientific units across the Russian Federation. The RAS conducts basic research in natural and social sciences, engineering, and the humanities, aiming to contribute to the country’s economic, social, and spiritual development. More information about the RAS can be found on Wikipedia.