It has been 3 years since Ukraine was invaded and, sadly, many Ukrainians are still living with constant fear, uncertainty and a state of permanent tension.
Wars do not only destroy buildings - they kill people, tear families apart and cause permanent injuries. All of these can have devastating effects on a person's mental health. At Humanity & Inclusion, our teams are providing mental health support to help victims cope.
Victoria Perez, who works as a mental health specialist in Ukraine, says "Everyone is impacted by the war in one way or another. Air raid alarms and shellfire can be extremely frightening and keep people on constant alert."
Victims of war experience a range of symptoms, such as flashbacks, intense distress and nightmares. For some, day-to-day life is unbearable.
And sadly, as the relentless bombing in Ukraine continues, so does the number of men, women, children and elderly people who are being traumatised.
One of the most effective ways to cope with trauma is through connection with others. When people share their stories, they realise they are not alone, and this sense of solidarity becomes a powerful healing force.
That is why our teams in Ukraine are working tirelessly to provide group mental health sessions. In these sessions, there are breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, plus artistic activities and games to lighten the atmosphere. It's somewhere where those who have lost so much can find comfort in being together.
The sessions have been a huge success, helping to reduce people's chronic stress and helping them to cope with their day-to-day difficulties.
We are determined to provide support to as many people as possible, but we can't do it alone. To provide these sessions, we really need your help.
As one regular at the sessions describes: "People are suffering every day from anxiety, worry, rocket fire and destruction... everyone is suffering. That's why people need psychological support, so that the war doesn't drive them crazy. Because whatever happens, we have to keep going."
Please sign the petition to demand mental health support for victims in Ukraine.
Together, we can help war victims get the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Thank you.
