Training “Psychological First Aid” within the framework of the “How are you?” program

On May 9, 2025, a training session on “Psychological First Aid” was held at the Mental Health Center of Ternopil National Medical University. The event took place within the nationwide program initiated by First Lady Olena Zelenska, titled “How are you?”, and was part of a month-long campaign dedicated to mental health awareness.

The training was conducted by:
– Olha Liuta, PhD in Medicine, Associate Professor at the Department of Psychiatry, Narcology, and Medical Psychology at TNMU;
– Svitlana Berezna, TNMU alumna, combat medic, and instructor at the tactical-specialized training unit of Ukraine’s Defense Forces.

Participants included students of the Nursing Faculty, paramedics, psychiatry interns, and volunteers. They were introduced to the basics of providing psychological first aid in extreme situations, the response algorithm for acute stress reactions, emotional stabilization techniques, and key principles of communication with people in crisis.

Special attention was given to the practical development of psychological support skills, active listening, and recognizing conditions that require immediate intervention.

Svitlana Berezna shared invaluable experience in providing aid in combat conditions, discussed the challenges faced by frontline medics, and emphasized the importance of psychological resilience and mutual support in times of war.

Such educational initiatives are highly relevant in today’s reality, as young medical professionals prepare to work under heightened stress and are often the first to encounter individuals who have experienced trauma.