Loss is a sad, painful, and unfortunately inevitable part of life. We cannot escape it. The war has brought countless painful losses to our nation. When someone faces such an experience, they need the support of family and friends to help them cope.
On May 13, 2025, Alla Kolodyazhna, PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor of the Department of Professional Education in Technology and Design, took part in a webinar “Psychological Support in Surviving Loss” as part of the project “Professional Development in Mental Health: Knowledge, Experience, Practice” conducted by the Coordination Center for Mental Health of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine / Mental Health UA.
The project is being implemented within the framework of the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Program “Are You OK?” at the initiative of First Lady Olena Zelenska. The purpose of the event was to provide access to the knowledge and expertise of internationally recognized specialists, as well as to introduce participants to best clinical practices and recent scientific innovations. The webinar was conducted online.
The speaker at the event was Oleh Romanchuk, a psychotherapist and child and adolescent psychiatrist at the Family Circle Center, as well as Director of the Institute of Mental Health at the Ukrainian Catholic University and the Ukrainian Institute of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Mr. Romanchuk has many years of clinical experience, particularly in supporting children and adults coping with the loss of a loved one. He is an accredited therapist, supervisor, and trainer in cognitive behavioral therapy, schema therapy, EMDR, and dance-movement therapy. As the founder of the Family Circle Center, he has been actively involved in developing educational programs, implementing innovative social projects, and driving mental health reforms in recent years. Mr. Romanchuk is also the author of several documentaries and a range of professional and popular books.
Death is an inevitable part of life, and sooner or later, everyone experiences loss. Regardless of the circumstances, the death of a loved one causes deep emotional pain that can lead to serious psychological and even physical health issues. These consequences may persist for a long time. Emotional reactions are nearly impossible to avoid, and since the intensity of grief varies depending on many subjective and objective factors, the question arises: can others, particularly professional psychologists, truly help those who are grieving?
At the webinar, the lecturer revealed the peculiarities of experiencing loss in the context of war and presented effective approaches to psychological support that can be useful to professionals.
Life goes on... We endure loss, adapt to change, and begin anew. Each experience – no matter how painful or sorrowful – becomes an essential part of who we are, shaping the paths we take and the people we become.
One of the most profound lessons that loss teaches us is the enduring power of love, a love that is stronger than death, allowing those we cherish to live on in our hearts and remain part of our journey. With this love, and through mutual support, we find the strength to believe that despite all the hardships, we can build a life that is meaningful, beautiful, and shared.
22.05.2025
