At the beginning of April, 12-year-old Mariika from Gostomel found herself almost in the epicenter of the sandstorm that covered the Kyiv region that day. The child was scared and began to panic. Fortunately, a neighbor boy helped her get home. But the experienced stress has already had its consequences. At home, Mariika felt sick. It was difficult for her to breathe. The child was shaking and crying, and a panic attack began…

Fortunately, my mother had the number of a psychologist from our Psychological Assistance Center in Irpin. Although the family did not have the opportunity to come to the Center that day, our psychologist immediately started an online consultation via video link. Using stabilization and safety techniques, the specialist helped Mariika calm down and cope with a panic attack.

The next day, the fears returned. So, the day before, we met in person and conducted the “Emotional Universe” art therapy exercise. By creating a plasticine mandala, the girl learned to “unload” negative emotions and fill herself with new positive ones.

The power of psychological support is amazing! Now Mariika confidently goes to school. And she keeps the painting “Emotional Universe” as a reminder of the overcome inner storm.

The psychologists of our Center do everything possible so that children affected by the war can cope with their injuries and regain the joy of life. Together, we are stronger!

Сonsultations come with the program ‘Complex Psychological Assistance to Children and Families Affected by War’ of the USAID project ‘Building a Sustainable Public Health System’ with the support of PACT, aimed at providing psychosocial support to internally displaced adults and children who suffered from the war.