This is Dmytryk (name changed). He is eight. The war destroyed his home, took away his friends, and stole his childhood.

Dmytryk’s family fled their native Donetsk region and found refuge in our Hope and Healing center in Kyiv. His older brothers quickly adapted to the new conditions. However, Dmytryk had a much harder time coping with his harrowing experiences.

The most challenging thing for him was meeting new children and making friends. It was difficult mentally for him to let new people into his circle. His parents were deeply concerned but did not know how to help him.

Our psychologist, Inna Semenenko, noticed that Dmytryk struggled to express his emotions in conversation. During one session, she introduced the Volcano method, designed to release aggression and understand its roots. She encouraged Dmytryk to draw and later discuss his drawings. Through art, he began to express what was troubling him. He learned how to release emotions without causing harm to himself or others.

Gradually, Dmytryk became calmer. He started smiling more and found it easier to interact with other children. He opened up to communication and, most importantly, learned to understand his feelings.

❤️ Thank you to everyone who helps us restore childhood to children who have experienced war.

***
These consultations are part of USAID Public health system recovery and resilience activity, supported by Pact, and focused on providing psychological support to displaced adults and children who have experienced trauma.