Insights from the Frontlines: Supporting Children’s Mental Health in the Humanitarian Crisis in Ukraine

As the world marks World Mental Health Day, we are reminded of the pressing need for mental health support in regions affected by conflict. One of the most vulnerable groups impacted by such crises is children. In Ukraine, where the humanitarian crisis continues to displace families and disrupt lives, the mental and emotional toll on children has been devastating.

Children affected by armed conflict face a range of mental health challenges, from distress and anxiety to trauma-related symptoms. Displacement, separation from family, loss of loved ones, and disruption to their education have left a lasting impact on their sense of safety and well-being. The role of professionals in education, healthcare, and social work has never been more important, as they provide essential emotional support to these vulnerable young individuals.

Funded by the European Union's EU4Health programme, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is collaborating with The Geneva Learning Foundation (TGLF) to provide online peer learning in psychological first aid to professionals who are working to support these children. The Certificate peer learning programme on Psychological First Aid (PFA) in support of children affected by the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine aims to involve health, education and social work professionals, alongside national Red Cross staff and volunteers, who are in contact with affected children.

The Power of Peer Learning

A unique aspect of the programme is its focus on peer learning. Professionals working in diverse settings across Europe have found value in sharing their experiences, learning from each other, and discovering fresh approaches to the challenges they face.

This collaborative model allows participants to:

1. Share real-world experiences: The programme fosters a sense of community, where professionals can openly discuss their successes and struggles.
2. Explore new ideas: By engaging with peers, participants gain new insights and approaches to better support children.
3. Earn certification: Completing the programme provides formal recognition of participants’ skills and knowledge, a valuable credential for professionals in the field.

Join the Movement: Apply Now

As the need for mental health support continues to grow, now is the time for professionals to enhance their skills and be part of the solution. We encourage all professionals working with children in crisis-affected regions to apply for the Certificate peer learning programme on Psychological First Aid in support of children affected by the humanitarian crisis. Your work is vital to helping children heal and thrive.

Insights from the PFA Programme: Voices from the Field

The experiences of 873 professionals from across Europe who applied for the first programme cohort, documented in our latest insights report, “Psychological First Aid in Support of Children Affected by the Humanitarian Crisis in Ukraine,” shed light on the challenges and successes of providing mental health support in this unique context.

?Key Insights from the Report:

• Identifying distress in children: Children manifest emotional distress in different ways, and it’s critical for professionals to recognize these signs early. From withdrawal to aggression, understanding these behaviours is the first step in providing effective support.
• Effective interventions and barriers: The report highlights strategies that have proven effective in helping children cope, as well as obstacles that professionals encounter—whether due to lack of resources, trauma overload, or the ongoing instability of the region.
• The importance of supporting caregivers: Caregivers play a central role in helping children recover from trauma. Professionals must not only support children but also equip caregivers with the tools to provide ongoing emotional care.
• The need for continuous training: Many professionals emphasized the need for continued education and peer learning. Ongoing access to training like the Certificate peer learning programme on Psychological First Aid in support of children affected by the humanitarian crisis ensures that practitioners are equipped with the latest strategies and tools to support mental health in crisis contexts.

Learn More and Apply

• Certificate peer learning programme on Psychological First Aid (PFA) in support of children affected by the humanitarian crisis: https://www.learning.foundation/ukraine
• Insights Report: “Psychological First Aid in Support of Children Affected by the Humanitarian Crisis in Ukraine”: https://www.learning.foundation/ukraine-insights

By coming together to support these children, we can make a lasting impact on their mental health and future well-being.