MODELING THE SPACE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING DURING WAR: EXPERIENCE OF CONDUCTING ART THERAPY SUPPORT GROUPS FOR UKRAINIANS ONLINE

Abstract

The article presents the experience of conducting online psychological support groups for Ukrainians during the war, using art therapy techniques. The online format offers several advantages, such as accessibility from anywhere in the world, time efficiency, and anonymity. However, among its disadvantages are limited emotional contact and difficulties in performing art therapy exercises due to a lack of materials. Each group had eight sessions over two months, meeting weekly via the Zoom platform. The group sessions lasted two hours and included psychoeducation, thematic art therapy, and discussions. Despite the unstable composition of participants, a stable core group helped foster an atmosphere of trust, which provided a strong therapeutic effect. Group dynamics manifested through the exchange of experiences, self-identification, support, and self-exploration. The publication offers three stories of group participants, structured as self-reflections following the creation of artistic works. Each story reflected the unique aspects of psychological transformation of Ukrainian women during the war. A young girl managed to find positivity amidst emotions of anxiety, fear, and despair, discovering joy in life. A middle-aged woman redefined her role and identity within her relationship with her partner. A mature woman focused on spiritual identity and the search for life’s meaning. Through their work, each participant outlined their own space of psychological well-being, which contributed to personal growth, overcoming the challenges of war, and bringing meaning to their lives. Thus, art therapy methods became tools of creativity and self-discovery, creating an «oasis of humanity» amid the challenges of wartime. Our experience conducting psychological support groups demonstrates the potential of art therapy in fostering participants’ psychological development, stabilizing their emotional state, and adapting to difficult conditions. Expanding access to online support, applying modern psychological methods, and supporting diverse population groups hold significant potential for further development of these programs.