Mental Health Experts at TNMU Train Clergy to Provide Psychological Support in Wartime
War affects everyone—soldiers, their families, displaced persons, volunteers, and society as a whole. In these difficult times, people seek support not only from psychologists but also from clergy, who often become the first to hear pain, grief, anxiety, and despair. Recognizing the importance of their mission, faculty members from the Department of Psychiatry, Narcology, and Medical Psychology at Ternopil National Medical University have organized a series of seminars for clergy every Monday at TNMU’s Mental Health Center.
Professors Olena Venher, Volodymyr Bilous, and Olha Liuta shared their knowledge and experience with the participants. The seminar program is designed to provide spiritual leaders with essential information and practical skills for effectively communicating with those affected by war.
Key Topics Covered in the Seminars
How to Support Military Families?
The relatives of soldiers live in constant anxiety for their loved ones on the front lines or waiting for them to return from captivity. Many experience helplessness, emotional exhaustion, and uncertainty about the future. Participants discussed ways to help these families find inner strength and resilience.
How to Communicate with Veterans Returning from War?
Soldiers returning home often face difficulties adapting to civilian life, emotional instability, and a sense of alienation. Some avoid discussing their experiences, while others need to share but struggle to find the right words. The seminar covered support methods that help veterans reintegrate without intrusive questioning or pressure.
How to Speak with Those Whose Loved Ones Are Missing or in Captivity?
Relatives of missing persons or prisoners of war endure deep uncertainty and pain. They struggle between holding onto hope and facing loss, requiring empathy and support. The seminar guided on engaging with these individuals sensitively without causing additional distress.
How to Communicate with Children Whose Parents Are Fighting or Have Died?
Children’s psyches are particularly vulnerable to loss and change. Those whose parents are at war or have died may withdraw, experiencing fear, guilt, or anger. Participants discussed communication techniques that help children safely express their emotions without imposing feelings they are not yet ready to process.
Clergy as Pillars of Support
Clergy accompany people through some of life’s most challenging moments. Beyond prayer, they offer words of comfort, restore faith, and guide individuals to professional help when needed. The TNMU seminars equip them with the knowledge and skills required for compassionate and professional communication with those experiencing grief, loss, or severe stress.
One final session remains, which will summarize the entire seminar series. We thank all participants for their openness, compassion, and commitment to helping those who need it most!