In April and May, “Children and War: Teaching Recovery Techniques” online psychological support groups for children from Kramatorsk were conducted within the “Helping Hand for Ukraine” project. The groups were facilitated by trainers Yana Serhieieva and Serhii Serhieiev.
The participants were children living in the reality of war, constant anxiety, and uncertainty. For many of them, simply having the opportunity to meet regularly online, see familiar faces, experience support, and feel safe became an important part of their emotional recovery.
For many children in frontline Kramatorsk, the online format has become more than an alternative to in-person meetings — it has been the only safe way to receive regular psychological support. Amid the constant threat of shelling, air raid alerts, and security restrictions, our online groups help ensure continued access to professional assistance and support children’s emotional well-being. Rather than a temporary solution, the online format has become a necessary condition that allows children in a frontline community to receive ongoing psychological support despite the challenging security situation.
During the sessions, children learned to better understand their emotions and cope with anxiety, fear, and worry. Participants were introduced to self-regulation techniques, breathing exercises, safe-place practices, strategies for working through fears, and methods for restoring emotional balance.
The trainers noted that with each session, the children became more open, confident, and engaged in communication. Those who were initially hesitant to speak or afraid of making mistakes gradually began to trust the group more, take initiative, and share their personal experiences.
Particularly meaningful were the moments when children began using the techniques not only during the sessions but also in their everyday lives. One participant learned to independently use the “square breathing” technique when experiencing strong anxiety. Another child started practicing the “safe place” exercise together with their grandmother at home to help manage difficult emotions and regain a sense of calm.
These small steps are incredibly important, as they gradually help children restore a sense of safety, trust, and inner resilience even under difficult life circumstances.
We sincerely thank the trainers for their attentiveness, compassion, and support, as well as every child for their trust, courage, and willingness to embrace the path toward healing and recovery.
