The full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine has taken a devastating toll on the country’s children, with almost 600 children killed and over 1,200 injured. Additionally, nearly 1,800 children have been orphaned as a result of the war. These children are forced to cope with the loss of their parents and live without their support, which can have a severe impact on their mental health. Ukrainian psychotherapist Marta Bilyk explains that children who experience such traumatic losses during war may face heightened mental health challenges, leading to depressive symptoms, apathy, and even suicidal thoughts. The loss of parents can also result in financial struggles and a decrease in the overall quality of life for some families.
Even children who have not lost a parent to the war have been robbed of a peaceful childhood, turning an entire generation into “children of war.” These children live in fear for their own lives and the lives of their loved ones, which is not a typical experience for children of their age. The United Nations children’s agency UNICEF warns that the war has had a devastating impact on children’s mental health, with an estimated 1.5 million Ukrainian children at risk of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health issues.
The Ukrainian government provides financial support to children who have lost their parents in the war, but charities like the Children of Heroes foundation also play a crucial role in providing psychological, legal, and humanitarian support to these children. The foundation offers a support program for children who have lost parents to the invasion, helping them cope with their trauma and offering educational opportunities. Children who have received support from the foundation have had the chance to interact with high-ranking officials like Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, which has been motivating for them.
The foundation’s strategic goal is to support children until they reach the age of 18 and help them achieve their goals. By providing educational courses, arranging camps and workshops, and inspiring children to dream and communicate with officials, the foundation aims to give these children a sense of hope and purpose. Despite the pain of their losses, children like Arina Pervunina, who lost her father in the war, are learning to live with their trauma and are determined to make a positive impact in the future. Arina dreams of becoming a doctor and returning to Ukraine to help others who have experienced similar losses.
The stories of children like Arina and others affected by the war highlight the urgent need for support for Ukraine’s youngest victims. By supporting independent journalism and organizations like the Children of Heroes foundation, individuals can contribute to providing essential care and assistance to these children who have suffered unimaginable losses. It is crucial to ensure that these children are not forgotten and that they receive the support they need to heal and thrive in the midst of ongoing conflict and devastation. Through collective efforts and compassion, hope can be restored for the children of Ukraine who have been deeply impacted by the war.
