In a world as globalized as the current one, where a war conflict of this caliber was, until practically a couple of months ago, unthinkable, they arrive three words constantly ring in our ears: the Ukrainian war.

And, despite the fact that we are not geographically “close” to the conflict, socially we are closer than ever. Especially thanks to the media, any relevant event can have an impact on our daily lives, wherever it occurs.

It also doesn’t help that we are still in full recovery from a situation like the pandemic. These last two years, while difficult for everyone, seemed to be calming down with the help of vaccines. Until now.

What does the war in Ukraine mean?

In reality, one of the points that we can hear the most when hearing about the war in Ukraine is the sudden stop to tranquility. It is a phenomenon that is capable of generating very diverse opinions and a large social movement (whether in favor of some opinions or others).

First of all, it is basic to emphasize that it seems that we are all clear about one primary point: “no to war”, present in social networks, social campaigns strong> and in all types of media. However, we must be aware that the interpretation and consequent action of this disaster can be very different depending on the age group in which we are. let’s find.

• Children: the most important thing is to know how to explain to them what is happening in Ukraine, so that they do not generate irrational fears or stress unnecessary. In this way, it should be part of family conversations, but only transmitting certainty and security, avoiding any type of confusion. It is vital to make them understand that there are things that happen that do not have a plausible explanation, or that may not have an answer at that moment. It is also good that they have the feeling that they can help, even if it is symbolically.
• Adolescents: the case of adolescents, however, is more dangerous. By frequently using social networks, they do not become oblivious to the conflict. They may not fully understand what is happening, but they know that there are victims, and that can cause them suffering and psychological discomfort.
• Adults: the most affected are the parents of school-aged children, whounderstand the conflict, They worry about its consequences, and, furthermore, about what it may impact or wait their children in the future.
• Older people: perhaps it can be said that, given their age or their experiences, they are the group most capable of relativizing the problemand suffer less than other groups.

Psychological effects in Spain

In our nation, it is important to know how this conflict affects us psychologically. A basic factor in these effects is, precisely, the distance factor. By this we mean both geographic distance and emotional distance: whether we have traveled to Ukraine or Russia or feel involved strong> in some way, it will affect us more.

Fear

When a war appears, the first effect that we can observe among the population is fear. Given the previous similar situations, ordinary people associate war with chaos, uncertainty, poverty and violence.
Although it does not affect us directly, we can empathize with the victims, especially for people with children. The latter may feel an added feeling of fear or doubt about what the future may hold for their descendants.

Anxiety

Anguish in the face of uncertainty is common in this type of situation. The agglomeration of news about the war in Ukraine is already taking its toll on us psychologically. In its worst stage, this type of anxiety can cause insomnia and even depression.

We must keep in mind that the way war affects us will depend to a high degree on our capacity for resilience, to adapt to stressful and/or new situations. There could also be cases of physical symptoms due to nerves or stress, such as headaches, intestinal problems or dermatitis.

In general terms, if we feel that these effects overwhelm us and we fail to manage our emotions, we can end up having a very important inadjustment to >war periods. It is very complicated to know how we can treat anxiety in these types of situations, and therefore, it is important to turn to professionals, who will make everything easier.

What can we do to cope with the war in Ukraine?

We leave you a series of tips to try to continue with our lives in the best possible way while the conflict lasts:

• Keep distance from the problem: although it is important to empathize, sometimes we must remind ourselves that we are at a certain distance from the problem. focus. If at any time we consider that we feel too distressed, or that it is affecting us greatly, it is best to consider emotional distance.
• Prioritize problems: the way the war in Ukraine affects us will depend decisively on the psychological health we have previously. However, we can use this situation to our advantage, comparing what we considered problems and giving each thing its real importance.
• Face fear: we mustavoid making war a taboo subject. Although fear is a necessary emotion for life (since it is intrinsically linked to our sense of survival), we cannot allow it to dominate us. We must understand that we can be afraid, but it cannot be our fear: we must move forward, despite feeling it. Talking about it, for example with friends and family, can be very helpful.
• Consume real and relevant information: in the era of misinformation, it is essential to know that not all the news that reaches our ears is true strong>. It is very important to contrast the information and not believe rumors or hoaxes.
• Limit information consumption: sometimes, it may seem to us that the best solution is to “know everything.” In cases like this, where bad news abounds, it is more appropriate to limit the hours of consumption so as not to become obsessed with the subject. >

If you want to help Ukraine, you can take a look at UNHCR (financial contributions) or Red Cross (financial aid and volunteering). Remember that, in addition, we are available to help you overcome this difficult stage if you need it.

Cheer up and say NO TO WAR!