The Sanctuary Effect: How War is Reshaping Childhood and the Rise of Resilience-Focused Care
While Russia launched its deadliest attack on Kyiv this year on July 31st, claiming 31 lives amidst a barrage of drones and missiles, 700km away, a different scene unfolded. Thirty children, many hailing from the very city under siege, roasted marshmallows at the Zefir summer camp in the Carpathian Mountains. This stark contrast isn’t just a story of escape; it’s a glimpse into a rapidly evolving landscape of childhood in conflict, and a growing recognition of the unique psychological needs of a generation marked by war.
The Erosion of Social Skills and the Rise of Digital Dependence
The Zefir camp, run by Tetiana and Alex Svatenkova, isn’t new – it began in 2017. But its relocation from Kyiv to the relative safety of the mountains speaks volumes. More significantly, Tetiana, a PhD in psychology, has observed a profound shift in the children she serves. Before the war, she notes, children were more open to new experiences and relationships. Now, a pervasive uncertainty has left its mark, leading to difficulties in emotional regulation and a noticeable retreat into digital spaces.
This isn’t simply a case of increased screen time. Tetiana believes phones offer a sense of control in a world that feels utterly chaotic. “When they’re holding it, I don’t think they feel as much in danger,” she explains. This observation aligns with broader research on the psychological effects of trauma, where individuals often seek out behaviors that provide a feeling of safety and predictability. UNICEF reports detail the escalating mental health crisis among Ukrainian children, highlighting anxiety, depression, and PTSD as widespread concerns.
Beyond Respite: The Emerging Model of Proactive Resilience Building
The Zefir camp exemplifies a shift from simply providing respite to actively fostering resilience. The Svatenkovas intentionally limit group sizes to ensure individualized attention, identifying each child’s strengths and creating opportunities for positive reinforcement. Valeriia, a 15-year-old camper from Kyiv, embodies this approach – her passion for dance is leveraged to lead activities, building confidence and a sense of agency.
This proactive approach is becoming increasingly common in Ukraine, with a proliferation of specialized camps and programs. However, the Svatenkovas’ model stands out for its emphasis on personalized care. They aren’t just offering a break from the sirens; they’re attempting to rebuild skills eroded by trauma and equip children with the tools to navigate an uncertain future. This is a crucial distinction, as simply removing children from the immediate danger zone isn’t enough to address the long-term psychological consequences of war.
The Long-Term Implications for a Generation
The experiences of Ukrainian children are likely to have lasting effects on their social and emotional development. The constant exposure to trauma can disrupt the formation of secure attachments, impair emotional regulation, and increase the risk of mental health problems later in life. Furthermore, the increased reliance on digital devices as a coping mechanism could exacerbate existing issues related to social isolation and addiction.
However, this generation also possesses a unique capacity for resilience. Having faced adversity at a young age, they may develop a heightened sense of empathy, adaptability, and determination. The key lies in providing them with the support and resources they need to harness these strengths and overcome the challenges they face. This includes not only specialized programs like Zefir, but also increased access to mental health services, trauma-informed education, and supportive communities.
The Global Relevance of Ukraine’s Experience
While the situation in Ukraine is particularly acute, the lessons learned from this conflict have broader implications for children affected by war and displacement worldwide. The need for proactive, resilience-focused care is universal. As conflicts become increasingly protracted and complex, it’s essential to move beyond traditional humanitarian aid and invest in programs that address the underlying psychological needs of children.
The rise of camps like Zefir signals a growing awareness of this need. It’s a testament to the power of human connection, the importance of play, and the enduring capacity of the human spirit to find hope even in the darkest of times. The future of this generation – and the future of societies rebuilding from conflict – depends on our ability to prioritize their well-being and empower them to thrive.
What innovative approaches to supporting children in conflict zones do you believe will be most effective in the coming years? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
