Emergency Support for Ukrainian Refugees

This is the fourth spring since Russia started a full-scale invasion into Ukraine in February 2022. We are concerned about the increasing stress and anxiety among Ukrainian citizens, especially minors who may not be fully equipped with the ability tp cope.

In Ukraine, about half of those who are aged between 13 and 15 have problems sleeping due to stress, and about three fourths of those who are between 14 and 34 require psychological and emotional support, according to studies by UNICEF. Also, one in every five Ukrainians are found to suffer from Post Traumatic Syndrome Disorder (PTSD), and fear or nervousness from loud noises. There are studies indicating that continuous stress has a negative impact on minors’ brain development, language and mobility,and happiness, leading to possible damage to their social and emotional growth. 

That is why, in February, Peace Winds has started providing group therapy for minors between the age of 12 and 16, in order to enhance the ability to manage their psychological state in Chernihiv Oblast, Ukraine. Parts of Chernihiv Oblast were temporarily occupied by the Russian Forces immediately after the invasion, and residents suffered from violence and human rights violations by Russian Forces.

The group therapies are held in safe environments led by psychotherapists. Various activities, including creative workshops, are offered in this program so that teenagers can learn how to cope with various problems, including stress, trauma and PTSD. 12 groups of teenagers will receive three sessions of 150-minutes group therapies.

According to pre-session questionnaires, 27.1% of the 50 participants answered that “Their level of psychological security is low” and 60.4% answered they “always or frequently feel insecure.” We hope that children exercise the relaxation methods they will learn in group therapy, and that it will lead to a better psychological condition.We will continue our efforts to support the Ukrainian people in finding comfort amidst a difficult situation.

Positive Effects of Group Therapies for Women in Chernihiv

Prior to this project, Peace Winds conducted another project for "Improving Women’s Psychological State through Group Therapies in Chernihiv Oblast". We provided group therapy for women who tend to be put in socially weak positions. Psychotherapists organized the therapy sessions so that women could enhance their ability to manage their psychological condition to face challenges and stress. As a result of these therapies, more than 300 women said their psychological condition has improved.

Peace Winds continues to provide support for the Ukrainian people who continue to face a  difficult situation.

We appreciate your support. Thank you.