The war affected the life of every Ukrainian, leaving deep wounds. But we can find a way to heal through fortitude and mutual support.

Liubov from Luhansk was 59 years old when she had to leave her hometown because of the war. Her peaceful, regular life was destroyed in one moment. However, along with it came a realization that she is Ukrainian. She spoke Russian all her life. She began speaking Ukrainian in just a few days. The Russian language became a trigger that initiated emotions that caused physical pain and uncontrollable aggression.

Having found strength, Liubov began to sew camouflage nets for the military. Work helped for a while, but anxiety over the war, constant sirens, and sleepless nights did not let go.

But Liubov got on the course of Psychological Rehabilitation Healing the Soul and Body at the Save Ukraine Community Center in Irpin. After eight weeks of group therapy, the physiological symptoms of the trauma receded. “I sleep all night, I don’t wake up, and I get up refreshed,” Liubov shared at the end of the course.

By combining the efforts of psychologists and members of support groups, we can overcome the consequences of war and find inner peace. Liubov managed to leave anger behind and open the heart to new possibilities. Let her example inspire everyone who suffered from war.

***
The Rehabilitation Course was conducted within the program Complex Psychological Assistance to Children and Families Affected by the War, which is implemented within the USAID project Development of a Sustainable Public Health System with the support of PACT. It aims to provide psychological support to displaced adults and children who have experienced trauma.