Russia (RU)
The world's largest country, spanning Europe and Asia, with deep cultural institutions, large cities, strong public transport, complex bureaucracy, sanctions-affected banking, strict migration registration, and a demanding but sometimes affordable expat experience.
Mental Health Resources
Support, crisis lines and therapy access in Russia.
Mental healthcare exists publicly and privately, but stigma, registration concerns and language barriers make private therapy common for expats.
Crisis Lines
Emergency
112
Languages: Russian primarily
Available: 24/7
FreeAmbulance
103
Languages: Russian primarily
Available: 24/7
FreeNational Psychological Help Hotline
8 800 333 44 34
Languages: Russian
Available: 24/7
FreeAccessing Therapy
Through public insurance: OMS may cover psychiatric care for eligible residents, but foreigners often use private care to avoid access and language barriers.
Waiting times: Private appointments can be quick in Moscow/Saint Petersburg; English-speaking specialists are limited and expensive.
- - use international teletherapy if legally/technically available
- - ask embassies and schools for counsellor lists
- - use employer EAP
- - keep medication continuity plan
- - prepare winter/SAD support
Online Therapy
Insurance covered: No / partially
Coverage depends on VHI. Cross-border telehealth and payment access can be difficult.
Expat-Specific Challenges
- -winter darkness
- -language fatigue
- -political stress
- -sanctions/payment isolation
- -bureaucracy and registration anxiety
- -limited spontaneous travel routes
- -culture shock and social reserve
For immediate danger use 112/103. Keep medication names in generic form and check import rules before travel.