In the realm of humanitarian aid and healthcare, the mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) team plays a crucial role not only in assisting beneficiaries but also in providing essential services to community workers. At IOM Czechia, psychosocial support for people who help is one of the main priorities of our work. Recognizing the toll that aiding others can take on caregivers, efforts are being made to address the psychological well-being of those who dedicate their time and energy to helping others.

Supporting Community Workers:
Community workers are the backbone of humanitarian efforts, yet their well-being is often overlooked. IOM Czechia recognizes the importance of offering services such as supervision, counseling, stress management, and burnout prevention to these individuals.

„Despite the common misconception that those who assist others are impervious to emotional strain, it is crucial to acknowledge that they too require support. Our MHPSS team emphasizes the need for caregivers to prioritize their own well-being, reminding them of the importance of adequate sleep and proper nutrition,“ says Olga Sydoruk, the psychologist from IOM MHPSS team

Workshops for Mediators from Ukraine:
As part of the State Health Institute project in Ukraine, a workshop was organized specifically for doctors acting as mediators. The objectives of this event were twofold: to create conditions for the psychological and emotional unloading of specialists and to teach techniques for self-preservation and self-regulation.

Interactive Approach:
The workshop adopted an interactive approach, providing participants with a platform to share their experiences, discuss fieldwork cases, and learn to recognize the symptoms of burnout. Employing art therapy techniques, the workshop aimed to induce relaxation and a sense of relief among participants.

Positive Outcomes:
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants expressed a positive change in mood and a sense of reassurance.

„Feedback from the caregivers highlighted the effectiveness of the interactive and engaging format. Participants appreciated the opportunity for communication, feedback, and the incorporation of metaphorical cards, indicating a well-thought-out and interesting workshop“ adds Sydoruk.

Global Relevance of Emotional Burnout:
The issue of emotional burnout is not confined to Ukraine; it is a prevalent challenge for medical professionals worldwide. Statistics indicate that between 25% and 75% of medical workers in Ukraine experience emotional burnout. This underscores the need for comprehensive and proactive measures to address the mental well-being of caregivers globally.

Recognizing and addressing the emotional burnout of caregivers is a critical aspect of ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of humanitarian and healthcare initiatives. Workshops, such as the one conducted for Ukrainian doctors, play a pivotal role in fostering self-awareness, resilience, and a supportive community for those on the front lines of providing assistance to others. As the world continues to grapple with healthcare challenges, prioritizing the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to caring for others is not just a necessity but a moral imperative.

This activity is possible thanks to the generous support of the German Federal Foreign Office for their support.

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