Grief in the Shadow of War: Supporting Ukraine's Bereaved. Guest: Dr. Svitlana Kominko

In this poignant episode, «Ukrainapodden» welcomes Svitlana Kominko, a Canadian-Ukrainian psychologist and PhD holder, to discuss the profound and often overlooked human cost of the war in Ukraine. Kominko shares insights into her vital work providing grief relief and mental health support to families who have lost loved ones, including the unique challenges faced by those grieving the 80,000+ missing Ukrainian defenders. She emphasizes that grief is a natural response to «unjust death» and highlights the importance of creating «safe spaces» and community for healing.

The conversation explores how bereaved mothers and wives transform their personal grief into purpose, becoming co-facilitators in healing programs. Kominko also delves into Ukraine’s history of intergenerational trauma and its enduring impact on national resilience. She argues for the critical role of psychological support in fostering post-traumatic growth for individuals and the nation. The episode concludes with a powerful message from mothers who, despite immense personal loss, remain steadfast in their conviction to fight for Ukraine, underscoring that their children’s sacrifice must not be «for nothing.»

You can read more about Svitlana Kominko's work and the «Heal a Mother's Heart» campaign here: healing.maplehopefoundation.org.

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