Residents of Chernihiv Oblast who survived the occupation suffer from shelling, loss of loved ones and homes, know what destructive changes are like no other. As part of a joint project with the International Organization for Migration, we strive to help in psychological recovery. Adaptation to changes is a natural part of life, but in the conditions of war, this process becomes difficult and requires special psychological stability.
Adaptation – is not a passive acceptance of circumstances, but an active process aimed at restoring balance between the inner world of a person and the external environment. It is the ability to accept new conditions and find ways to function effectively in them, while maintaining mental health.
Why is adaptation necessary during war?
War destroys the usual way of life, forcing people to face unprecedented challenges: displacement, loss of housing, work, loved ones. In such circumstances, successful adaptation becomes the key to psychological survival. She helps:
reduce stress.
When a person learns to accept change, he stops spending energy fighting what he cannot change and directs him to finding solutions.
regain a sense of control.
Although we cannot control external events, we can manage our response to them. This brings back a sense of subjectivity and strength.
maintain psychological stability.
The ability to adapt to change avoids a long-term feeling of helplessness and apathy, which can lead to depression and other mental disorders.
How to learn to adapt to changes?
You can learn to adapt by following several important psychological principles:
Accept your emotions. Allow yourself to feel fear, sadness, anger or frustration. All these emotions are a normal reaction to loss. Awareness and acceptance of your feelings – is the first step to overcoming them.
Focus on what you can control. Concentrate on everyday activities that depend on you: planning the day, cooking, maintaining ties with relatives. This will help restore a sense of stability.
Use your strengths. Remember how you coped with difficulties in the past. Apply these skills to overcome current challenges.
Ask for support. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Communicating with people with similar experiences or contacting a psychologist can provide the necessary resources and a sense of belonging to a community.
Create new rituals. War destroys the usual rituals, but new ones can be created. Daily morning coffee, an evening walk or reading a book can be the anchor that will give you back a sense of stability and predictability in life.