Taking refuge in a foreign country you might be wondering, “Now what do I do?” or “How am I going to cope with this war?”
There are various ways to cope during times of war, even when you are far away. This guide will give you a few coping strategies to help you get started.
Coping Strategies
1. Talk to Someone
The best way to cope with anything is to talk about it with someone else. It can be helpful to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through. That person may be a friend, family member, or therapist. Talking openly and honestly can help you process your thoughts and feelings, and it can also make them feel more manageable.
The same applies to coping with war from a distance in a country such as Ukraine. Find a friend who can listen and understand. You can talk to them in person, by email, or even on social media. Just ensure you have someone to talk to who will help you feel supported.
2. Find a Support Group
If talking to someone one-on-one isn’t your thing, find a support group instead. These groups consist of people who have gone through something similar to what you’re experiencing. This can be helpful because you can get advice and support from people who understand your situation.
Online and in-person support groups are available in Ukraine and other countries globally. If you’re looking for an online group, social media is a great place to start. There are often groups set up for people coping with war from a distance.
3. Stay Busy
When you’re coping with something difficult, it can be helpful to stay busy. This way, your mind is full of other things, and you don’t have time to think about what’s going on.
There are many ways to stay busy when coping with war from a distance. You can take up a new hobby, start volunteering or join a group.
You could also try to keep a regular schedule and stick to it as much as possible. This will help keep your mind occupied and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.
4. Find Ways to Honour the Victims
When you’re coping with war from a distance, it can be helpful to find ways to honour the victims. This can be anything from donating to a charity to lighting a candle in memory of those who have died. It’s essential to find ways to remember the victims and keep their stories alive.
You can also honour the victims by learning more about the war. Many documentaries and books can help you learn more about what’s happening. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to cope.
5. Take Care of Yourself
Finally, one of the most important things to remember when you’re coping with war from a distance is to take care of yourself. This means making sure you get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise. It can also mean taking some time for yourself to relax and de-stress each day.
If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t cope with war from a distance. Put your health and well-being first.
Don’t Be Afraid!
Coping with war from a distance can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Remind yourself of the above listed coping strategies. Remember to talk to someone who will listen and understand. Try to find a support group. Stay connected to your loved ones. Find ways to honour the victims, find ways to help others, and take care of yourself. With these tips, you can successfully cope with war from a distance.
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By Heidi Ramos