Kherson State University

The first module "Understanding Trauma" brought together professionals who work with people who have experienced traumatic experiences and are interested in implementing modern approaches to psychological support and building community resilience.
The purpose of the training "Principles of a trauma-oriented approach for the mental well-being of the community" is to train professionals in the skills of effective interaction with victims, manage the consequences of mediated trauma, create a safe environment without retraumatization, as well as support their own professional well-being. Special attention is paid to the use of modern scientifically based methods of stabilization, development of stress resistance, mindfulness practices and work with various forms of loss.
In the first module, participants considered key issues related to the nature of trauma, its symptoms and impact on a person's mental health. During the training, modern approaches to the definition of trauma, its psychological and behavioral manifestations, as well as human response mechanisms to traumatic events were analyzed.
A separate thematic block was devoted to types of injuries, in particular, the specifics of individual and collective injuries. Participants explored how traumatic experiences affect not only the individual, but also social groups and entire communities, creating long-term psychological and social consequences. An important place in the work was occupied by professional discussions, analysis of practical cases and reflection on the challenges faced by specialists in the conditions of war and social crises.
The first module was conducted by Ruslana Bilous, a candidate of psychological sciences, associate professor of the Department of Psychology of KhSU, who introduced the participants to modern approaches to understanding individual and collective trauma.
Erasmus+ BURN summer school is an important platform for professional development, exchange of experience and search for effective solutions in the field of mental health support in the conditions of modern challenges.