Training Soldier’s to Value Their Lives

Nataliia, a Professor of Psychology specializing in trauma at Shevchenko Univeristy in Kyiv, told us about a Ukrainian soldier who was under 30 years old and had a drug addiction. As a result, the soldier was regularly engaging in risky behaviors, and this went on for a period of 3 months. During this time the psychologist worked with him. The psychologist working with the Defender reported they had a feeling the soldier wanted to not value his life at all. Such a psychological condition is not representative of a correct mental state. As a result, the psychologist worked with this soldier and others to confront their fears and to address their underlying triggers.

Similar techniques with the implementation of the prolonged exposure therapy are being implemented. When a solider cannot fight anymore due to a heavy emotional trigger, the soldier freezes. Nataliia’s psychologist is helping the soldier address these issues. The psychologist was so successful in treating the soldier’s condition that his Commander was impressed and asked the psychologist to work with their other soldiers to help them not be afraid. Unfortunately, this soldier still died.

When you support the work of the Arlene Campbell Humanitarian Foundation, you allow us to work to further improve mental healthcare access in Ukraine for internally displaced persons, Ukrainian Defenders, and those who love their Defender. Thank you for your support.