Dima and other children find support in each other amidst trauma, sharing memories of their missing family members and participating in therapeutic activities.
Ukrainian Children Gather to Heal from War's Impact This Summer
Ukrainian Children Gather to Heal from War's Impact This Summer
A summer camp provides solace for Ukrainian children missing their loved ones due to the ongoing war.
In a serene corner of Ukraine's Carpathian mountains, the laughter of children echoes as they come together for a unique summer camp dedicated to supporting those who have loved ones missing due to war. Among them is 15-year-old Dima, who recalls the day his father left for military service, sharing the emotional weight of his absence with other children who face similar uncertainties.
During the campfire gatherings, children hold candles in remembrance of their missing parents, fostering a sense of community as they navigate heartbreak. The camp, organized by the charity Gen.Ukrainian, is designed specifically for children whose fathers and mothers have vanished amidst the chaos of war, with over 70,000 individuals currently listed as missing.
Lead psychologist Vanui Martirosyan emphasizes the complexities of the children's trauma, noting that many have lost multiple family members. Unlike traditional grieving processes, these children grapple with the ambiguity of loss, seeking information about their loved ones from social media, often encountering distressing content.
Dima, enjoying moments of reflection around the campfire, shares a bittersweet memory of his father, who was last heard from in November 2023. The uncertainty surrounding his father’s fate weighs heavily on him, yet he clings to hope. "I kept hoping until the end that Dad is a prisoner of war somewhere," he admits, showcasing the deep emotional scars left by the war.
Throughout the camp, psychologists like Olena engage the children in group therapy, focusing on emotional expression. A colorful chart helps participants articulate their feelings, enabling them to discuss topics around sadness and hope. Painting sessions further empower the children to express their experiences, with artworks depicting joyous family moments.
For many, this camp serves as a temporary refuge from the incessant fear of airstrikes, enabling them to rest and play freely. Activities like swimming and hiking have been integrated into the program, encouraging physical movement as a means to heal the mind.
As the camp draws to a close, the emotional weight of goodbyes takes center stage. Many children are reluctant to leave, having formed bonds with peers who share their pain. Oksana Lebedieva, the founder of Gen.Ukrainian, reflects on the profound impact of shared experiences, stating, "Group therapy is more important than anything—it's vital for the children to see they are not alone in their grief.”
This summer camp stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit amidst the shadows of war, highlighting the urgent need for continued support for countless Ukrainian children grappling with trauma.
During the campfire gatherings, children hold candles in remembrance of their missing parents, fostering a sense of community as they navigate heartbreak. The camp, organized by the charity Gen.Ukrainian, is designed specifically for children whose fathers and mothers have vanished amidst the chaos of war, with over 70,000 individuals currently listed as missing.
Lead psychologist Vanui Martirosyan emphasizes the complexities of the children's trauma, noting that many have lost multiple family members. Unlike traditional grieving processes, these children grapple with the ambiguity of loss, seeking information about their loved ones from social media, often encountering distressing content.
Dima, enjoying moments of reflection around the campfire, shares a bittersweet memory of his father, who was last heard from in November 2023. The uncertainty surrounding his father’s fate weighs heavily on him, yet he clings to hope. "I kept hoping until the end that Dad is a prisoner of war somewhere," he admits, showcasing the deep emotional scars left by the war.
Throughout the camp, psychologists like Olena engage the children in group therapy, focusing on emotional expression. A colorful chart helps participants articulate their feelings, enabling them to discuss topics around sadness and hope. Painting sessions further empower the children to express their experiences, with artworks depicting joyous family moments.
For many, this camp serves as a temporary refuge from the incessant fear of airstrikes, enabling them to rest and play freely. Activities like swimming and hiking have been integrated into the program, encouraging physical movement as a means to heal the mind.
As the camp draws to a close, the emotional weight of goodbyes takes center stage. Many children are reluctant to leave, having formed bonds with peers who share their pain. Oksana Lebedieva, the founder of Gen.Ukrainian, reflects on the profound impact of shared experiences, stating, "Group therapy is more important than anything—it's vital for the children to see they are not alone in their grief.”
This summer camp stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit amidst the shadows of war, highlighting the urgent need for continued support for countless Ukrainian children grappling with trauma.
