THE ROLE AND PLACE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL AID FOR INTERNALLY DISPLACED FAMILIES DURING MARTIAL LAW

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyze the organization of the system of psychological aid to internally displaced families who have experienced crises (combat operations). The article generalizes scientific and methodological sources devoted to particularities of the organization of psychological aid to internally displaced families during martial law. The components of the system of mental health development and psychosocial support, which would contribute to the organization of self-help, adaptation and the formation of resistance to stress factors in the affected population, are specified. The author provides an example of the organization of psychological support for children and adults from the above-mentioned category, which includes psychological first aid and enrichment activities aimed at improving psychosocial resistance to stress in children, in particular, strengthening the role of positive activities, developing skills to manage psychological reactions, promoting positive thinking, and restoring supportive social ties. The primary objective of educational training with internally displaced families is to enhance the social-psychological response of children and their families affected by the crisis, reduce the social-psychological consequences of trauma, and ensure stable access to psychological help. In the context of a military conflict, timely first psychological aid becomes relevant. Such help is offered to people who have just or recently experienced traumatic events and have a negative mental state. Experts note that such help can be provided by everyone who is nearby, and not only by specialists through professional consultations. Psychological first aid involves providing the injured person with emotional, physical, and social support, strengthening the sense of security. First of all, internally displaced families want to meet their basic needs and access relevant services and assistance in solving their new problems. The most common needs are finding temporary housing, food, water, sanitation, renewing health care services for people with injuries or chronic diseases, or long-term health disorders, re-establishing contact with loved ones and friends, and accessing a special kind of support regarding the culture or religion of these people.