The Ukrainian Red Cross is implementing the Building Emotional Resilience Programme, aimed at enhancing the psychosocial well-being of adolescents

The programme seeks to reduce stress levels and strengthen self-confidence, social and interpersonal skills, safe and responsible decision-making, and non-violent problem-solving skills. It helps children aged 10 to 14 strengthen their resilience and develop constructive ways of responding to life’s challenges.

The initiative is currently being implemented across nine regions of Ukraine and in Kyiv. Since the beginning of the year, nearly 100 activities have been delivered under the programme, reaching around 1,000 children.

Most recently, one such activity took place at the Orion Youth Club in Ivano-Frankivsk, where specialists from the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support programme conducted sessions for young participants focused on building emotional resilience, strengthening self-regulation skills, and promoting constructive interaction with peers. During the sessions, adolescents learned how to better recognise their emotions and identify safe and healthy ways of responding to challenging situations.

Supporting children’s mental health is a key priority for the Ukrainian Red Cross, particularly in the context of the ongoing war. Programmes such as this create safe spaces where children can strengthen their resilience and access the psychosocial support they need.