Healing Hearts: Ukrainian Children Find Hope Through Trauma Therapy

In the wake of the ongoing war in Ukraine, many children are grappling with profound trauma. Innovative therapy programs, including horse therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy, are being implemented to help these young refugees cope with their experiences and rebuild their lives.

Key Takeaways

• Innovative therapies are being used to support Ukrainian children affected by war.

• Horse therapy has shown positive results in emotional and physical development.

• Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy is helping children process their experiences.

The Impact of War on Ukrainian Children

The war in Ukraine has left millions of children facing emotional and psychological challenges. Many have been displaced, witnessing violence and loss, which can lead to long-term mental health issues if not addressed promptly. The UN Refugee Agency estimates that over 10 million Ukrainians have been displaced since the conflict escalated in February 2022.

Innovative Therapy Approaches

To combat the effects of trauma, various organisations are stepping up to provide support:

1. Hippotherapy: This form of therapy utilises horses to aid in the emotional and physical development of children. At the Eleon Foundation in Poland, children engage in sessions that not only improve their mood but also enhance their social skills and physical abilities. Parents have reported significant improvements in their children's behaviour and emotional stability after participating in these sessions.

2. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT): This evidence-based approach helps children process their traumatic experiences. Therapists guide children in recognising how past trauma affects their current behaviour and emotions. Techniques such as trauma narration allow children to express their feelings and reframe their experiences, fostering resilience and healing.

Success Stories

The Eleon Foundation has seen remarkable transformations among the children it serves. For instance, a mother named Oksana noted that her daughter, Sabrina, became calmer and happier after starting hippotherapy. Similarly, Alona, another mother, observed her son Nikita growing more confident and curious through the therapy sessions.

The Role of Caregivers

The presence of supportive caregivers is crucial in the healing process. Caregivers provide a nurturing environment that helps children feel safe and understood. In therapy sessions, when children share their narratives with caregivers, it reinforces their strength and resilience, further aiding their recovery.

Looking Ahead

As the conflict continues, the need for mental health support for Ukrainian children remains critical. Initiatives like the Eleon Foundation and trauma-focused therapy programs are vital in helping these children navigate their trauma and build a brighter future. With continued support and innovative approaches, there is hope for healing and resilience among the youngest victims of war.

Sources

• In Poland, horse therapy helps Ukrainian refugee children cope with the trauma of fleeing war, USA for UNHCR.

• A trauma-focused therapy is helping Ukrainian children besieged by war – a clinical psychologist explains how it could bring resilience to kids around the world, The Conversation.