Peace as a Transversal Psychological Resource: Implications for Mental Health Prevention

Abstract

Contemporary societies are increasingly exposed to collective stress generated by war, global insecurity, and prolonged crises, with significant consequences for mental health. In this context, the present paper conceptualizes peace as a transversal psychological resource and examines its relevance for mental health protection and prevention in situations of collective stress. Previous research in peace psychology, particularly the distinction between negative and positive peace, has emphasized the role of peace beyond the absence of conflict, highlighting its contribution to human development and psychological well-being. At the same time, studies in mental health have documented the indirect psychological effects of war-related stress, including heightened anxiety, vicarious trauma, and social polarization, even among populations not directly exposed to armed conflict. Adopting a conceptual and integrative psychological approach, this article draws on peace psychology, social and community psychology, and public mental health perspectives to analyze peace as a value operating across intrapersonal, interpersonal, and community levels. With illustrative reference to the psychological impact of the war in Ukraine on neighboring societies, the analysis suggests that peace functions as a protective psychological resource associated with emotional regulation, resilience, social cohesion, and reduced vulnerability to stress-related symptoms. At the group level, peace-oriented values support prosocial mobilization and community resilience while mitigating risks of polarization and collective insecurity. These findings highlight the importance of integrating peace-oriented principles into mental health prevention strategies, including group counseling, community-based interventions, and preventive public mental health policies.