Psychological Resilience During Times of War and Uncertainty

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND EXPERIENCE DEPARTMENT

PSYCHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT UNIT

Psychological Resilience During Times of War and Uncertainty

We are aware that the war and acts of violence taking place in the neighboring region may be emotionally affecting many of our students, especially our Iranian students. War does not only threaten physical safety; it can also impact our sense of security, belonging, future, and control.

During times of war and conflict, people may be psychologically affected even if they are not directly in the conflict zone. This is because our brains are evolutionarily sensitive to perceived threats. As uncertainty increases, the mind may struggle to tolerate a sense of loss of control and may become more focused on worst-case scenarios.

During such periods, you may experience:

• Anxiety and restlessness
• Sadness, anger, or helplessness
• Emotional numbness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• A strong urge to constantly follow the news
• An increased need to stay in contact with family and loved ones (WHO, 2022)

These reactions are not signs of weakness; they are natural responses of the nervous system to a possible threat signal.

We would like to remind you that struggling in the face of uncertainty is not a weakness. It is the nervous system’s way of trying to protect you.

What Is Psychological Resilience?

Psychological resilience does not mean being unaffected by difficult events. Rather, it refers to the capacity to recognize and regulate emotions and to gradually restore daily functioning in the face of challenging circumstances (Masten, 2014).

Resilience strengthens when we:

Do not suppress emotions Differentiate between what we can and cannot control Maintain small but consistent daily routines Stay connected with social support

We may not be able to control global events; however, we can:

• Limit our news consumption
• Maintain our daily routines
• Practice physical regulation techniques (breathing, relaxation, movement)
• Approach one another with compassion
• These small regulatory steps help calm the nervous system and enhance psychological resilience (Soutwick & Charney, 2018).

You are currently in a safe campus environment. Uncertainty can be challenging; however, you are not alone.

If these developments are significantly affecting you and you feel the need for emotional support, please remember that you can contact us by emailing counseling@ozyegin.edu.tr. Individual appointments will be scheduled as soon as possible. Priority support will be provided to students directly affected by the situation.

In these difficult times, we would like to emphasize the healing power of approaching one another with respect and compassion.

References

Masten, A. S. (2014). Ordinary Magic: Resilience in Development.

Southwick, S. & Charney, D. (2018). Resilience: The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges.

WHO (World Health Organization). (2022). Mental health and psychosocial considerations during emergencies.