Solutions from Ukraine: Safe Space Program aids children’s mental well-being during wartime

During times of war, the mental health of children can be significantly impacted. To address this issue, the Safe Space Program was created to provide crucial support for children struggling with their mental well-being during the war.

What is the problem?

The war significantly worsened the psycho-emotional state of children and adolescents in Ukraine, and the number of appeals for psychological support increased. This is evidenced by the results of the study of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, "The quality of the organization of the educational process in conditions of war." Teachers and parents are faced with manifestations of stress in children every day, and they must constantly support them while preserving their own resources.

What is the solution?

To grow up happily, a child needs a reliable adult who has a resource and understands the child's needs during difficult trials. To help parents and school teachers become such a support for the child, experts from the psychosocial support program "Safe Space," Words Help NGO, and the Center for Mental Health of the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy developed a series of short animated videos and posters explaining how stress works and what there are methods of combating it.

How does it work?

The information campaign includes three brief animated videos and a collection of posters that use stylized characters to show parents, guardians, and teachers simple methods to assist children in managing stress. The videos explain the physical effects of stress on children's learning and provide practical tips and exercises for adults to manage stress better.

"How to support children during war?"

"How does stress affect a child's learning?"

"How should adults take care of themselves?"