Meduza readers describe how the war in Ukraine has fractured social ties, leading to profound loneliness and a reliance on digital tools for connection.

Following an August report on the epidemic of loneliness in Russia, Meduza collected personal accounts from readers regarding their isolation. Respondents describe how the war has severed relationships with friends and family, forced them to adopt defensive life strategies, and led many to retreat into internal emigration.

Social Fragmentation and Relationship Loss

Many readers report that the war has created an irreparable divide between them and their social circles, including older generations and former friends. Some individuals have cut ties with relatives and colleagues due to conflicting views on the conflict, leading to a sense of being trapped in an environment of total support for the war. For those who remain in Russia, the inability to speak freely has resulted in a reliance on a very small group of like-minded family members or partners.

Coping Mechanisms and Digital Reliance

To manage the psychological strain, readers have turned to various coping mechanisms, including antidepressants, video games, and the use of artificial intelligence. Some have shifted their communication to foreign platforms in English to avoid censorship and the risk of being reported. Others use AI tools to simulate psychological support or to engage in discussions without the fear of human judgment or political repercussions.

Economic and Personal Constraints

Many respondents expressed a desire to leave the country but cited financial limitations or the need to care for elderly parents as primary obstacles. Those who remain describe a shift toward 'defensive life planning,' where they minimize their zone of responsibility and avoid public engagement to survive. Some participants noted that their professional opportunities have declined, further complicating their ability to afford mental health support or maintain their previous quality of life.