Easier Together. A new campaign for veterans, their families and beloved ones of the deceased

The new campaign of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Ukraine, the Ministry of Veterans Affairs and the plusone social impact agency encourages people to be more attentive to each other and to their emotions. A series of emotional videos is designed to inspire Ukrainians to support each other, as well as seek psychological support from specialists.

The second year of the full-scale war takes its toll. Veterans and their families, relatives and beloved ones of the deceased – a significant number of Ukrainians fit already into these categories. The pain of loss, memories, and other signs of post-traumatic condition prevent from experiencing life in full; a complex emotional experience requires time to reflect and accept, and a return to civilian life requires a lot of support. And this is not only about specialty care. This is also about contribution of everyone, the community where people live and return. 

In order to mitigate stigmatization of the topic of psychological health and underline availability of support, the “Easier Together” campaign talks out loud about emotions of people, in particular of veterans, during the war. We hear both those who experience alienation or loss, and those who is strong enough to listen and stay close.

Every voice and every experience is important. “Need support? Tell that” – the campaign advises. You can talk to your family or colleagues, or you can contact the IOM’s free psychological support hotline. Those will find the support who are ready to receive it and ask for it.

Mutual assistance is our path to sustainability of both individuals and the community as a whole. The information campaign “Easier Together” is created within the “Sustainability Path” project funded by the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs.