The United Kingdom has a strong history of supporting nations in times of need, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is no exception. Among various charitable efforts, the Restart Foundation, founded in 2023, plays a role in addressing mental health challenges in Ukraine caused by the 2022 invasion and its aftermath.
The Origins and Mission of Restart Foundation
The invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 devastated millions of lives, creating a widespread need for mental health support. The Restart Foundation was established to help address this crisis by focusing on improving mental health and well-being in Ukraine. Its efforts center on three key goals:
- Providing Mental Health Services: offering counseling, therapy, and rehabilitation programs tailored to different groups, including children, parents, teachers, veterans, and civilians.
- Raising Awareness: running media campaigns, creating educational content, and hosting public lectures to encourage conversations about mental health and reduce stigma.
- Training Mental Health Professionals: supporting the development of Ukraine’s mental health workforce by providing training and resources to psychologists and counselors.
Leadership and Vision
The Restart Foundation is led by a team of professionals with diverse expertise. Among them are:
- Alla Yansons (CEO), a psychologist with over 15 years of experience in Ukraine, specializing in family psychology and personal empowerment.
- Leonora Meriel (Chair of Trustees), a British novelist and co-founder of Yakaboo, Ukraine’s largest bookshop, bringing her leadership skills and commitment to the foundation.
- Victoria Goncharuk (Trustee), with extensive experience in international relations, contributes her expertise to sustainable development.
- Vefa Tahmazova (Trustee), a pediatrician turned educator, who has supported educational initiatives in Ukraine for years.
This team’s collective vision is to rebuild not just infrastructure but also the emotional and mental resilience of Ukraine’s population.
Addressing the Mental Health Crisis
The war has caused profound psychological distress for millions of Ukrainians. The effects are particularly severe for children exposed to displacement and violence, veterans coping with traumatic experiences, and civilians facing economic and emotional instability. The Restart Foundation provides programs to address these needs:
- Child-Focused Support: therapy sessions and activities aimed at helping children process trauma and regain a sense of normalcy.
- Parental and Educational Resources: tools and counseling to support parents and teachers as they help children navigate these challenges.
- Veteran and Civilian Programs: addressing PTSD, anxiety, and depression through tailored counseling and group therapy.
In addition to psychological support, the foundation incorporates physiotherapy into its services, recognizing the connection between physical and mental health.
Building a Sustainable Future
The Restart Foundation aims to create a sustainable mental health system in Ukraine by training local professionals and fostering public awareness. By equipping practitioners with knowledge and resources, the foundation ensures long-term support for mental health needs. Its advocacy efforts also contribute to shaping inclusive and accessible mental health policies.
The foundation has also collaborated with external partners in the UK to enhance its digital presence and reach a broader audience with mental health resources and updates on its initiatives.
Impact and Community Engagement
Restart Foundation’s programs have had measurable impacts on individuals and communities. Children who participate in its initiatives show signs of restored confidence and joy, while veterans find pathways to healing. The foundation’s educational campaigns help reduce stigma and promote understanding of mental health issues.
The organization collaborates with local and international bodies to expand its reach and ensure resources are used effectively. This collaborative approach strengthens its ability to address both immediate and long-term challenges.
The Restart Foundation’s work highlights the importance of addressing mental health in the aftermath of conflict. By focusing on psychological well-being, it helps individuals and communities in Ukraine move toward recovery and resilience. As the foundation continues its mission, it serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and support.
While the path to rebuilding Ukraine is long, the contributions of organizations like Restart Foundation demonstrate the critical role mental health plays in a nation’s recovery. Through continued support and collaboration, a brighter and healthier future for Ukraine is within reach.
Source: Restart Foundation official website www.restart-foundation.org
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Discover more from Life and Tech Shots Magazine
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
