Specialists from the Ukrainian Red Cross delivered a training on Psychological First Aid (PFA) for community-based veteran support workers

The event was implemented by the Ukrainian Red Cross in cooperation with the Coordination Centre for Mental Health under the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine, within the framework of the nationwide mental health programme “How are you?” — an initiative of the First Lady of Ukraine.

During the training, participants were introduced to the core principles of providing Psychological First Aid, in particular the “Look, Listen, Link” approach, as well as common reactions to crisis events and practical self-help techniques.

Particular attention was given to the specific aspects of supporting veterans within communities. As part of the practical component, participants reviewed typical situations and cases they may encounter in their work, discussed appropriate response approaches, and practised them through role-play scenarios.

The training was delivered by trainers from the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support programme of the Ukrainian Red Cross. Participants explored key aspects of supporting veterans and examined practical examples drawn from practitioners’ experience.

The All-Ukrainian mental health programme “How are you?” is overseen by the Coordination Centre for Mental Health under the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, with technical support from the World Health Organization. The programme’s implementing partner is the NGO “Barrier-Free”.