Currently, many people are experiencing a state of moral distress as the war continues, bringing with it horrific news daily, with soldiers and civilians losing their lives. Additionally, there are power outages, and everyone is grappling with their own personal moral injuries, tragedies, and dramas. How can we cope with all this?
In the latest episode of Kashtan. Interview, psychologist Anastasia Osadcha offers valuable advice on how to restore one's mental and emotional well-being, particularly for those who are feeling fatigued, burned out, depressed, or apathetic.
“Fatigue is a normal response of the body,” says Anastasia Osadcha. “It is important to listen to your body and know how to respond to the problem… If fatigue has already set in, you might recall any movie, some spaceships, or something else, like when a vehicle's engine fails, and part of the systems shuts down while another operates in emergency mode. So yes, fatigue exists, but rest may not be an option just yet. In such cases, we should disconnect from all other non-critical activities at that moment. Put away all messengers, communications, or even household chores.”
It is crucial to understand that there are things we can influence and others that are beyond our control. This was true even before the onset of the full-scale war. We managed to cope with this in the past, explains Anastasia Osadcha.
“When talking about general recommendations, several groups come to the forefront. One of them is routine, meaning an organized daily routine,” says Ms. Anastasia. “For instance, we can envision some spaceships, which represent an organized daily routine… Focus on small, pleasant rituals, such as enjoying coffee from your favorite mug while sitting in your favorite chair. Or writing to a loved one, or kissing your children in the morning before they head to school or after they return home. All of this creates a certain emotional fabric.”
This also includes the essential care for physical health, as the mind and body are inextricably linked. The nervous system is a very specific tissue in our bodies. We need to sleep well whenever possible; if we can't do so at night, then at least a little during the day.
The psychologist emphasizes that having a reliable social environment is crucial for individuals. Any form of art that one enjoys—cinema, painting, theater, anything at all—provides a glimpse into a slightly different reality and offers pleasant feelings or at least uplifts you... It activates certain emotions, making it very beneficial. This is not just about observation, but also about creation.
“I would also include fine motor activities—crocheting or knitting, embroidery, wood carving. Additionally, painting by numbers, coloring, and anti-stress activities. This is a fantastic practice for many,” says psychologist Anastasia Osadcha.
Watch the conversation with Anastasia Osadcha in the new episode of the YouTube project “Kashtan. Interview” at