The event was held as part of the psychological support program for trainees of the Police Academy Special Professional Training Center and within the framework of the “Psychological Practice Point” project.
The meeting was opened by Serhii Vyshnevskyi, Head of the Psychological Support Unit at Dnipro State University of Internal Affairs (DSUIA). He introduced the trainees to the main areas of the University’s psychological support service, explained how to access professional psychological assistance, and outlined the procedure for seeking support. Particular attention was paid to the early recognition of signs of psychological distress, the importance of maintaining mental well-being during adaptation to study, service and communal living, as well as to the ethical principles guiding psychologists’ work, including confidentiality, voluntary participation, accessibility, respect for clients’ well-being and evidence-based practice.
The practical session was conducted by psychologist Vladyslav Bidniak, who introduced participants to the fundamental principles and tasks of providing psychological first aid in crisis situations. Following the theoretical overview, the trainees practiced emotional stabilization and grounding techniques, which are especially relevant under martial law. During the discussion, participants also explored practical psychological first aid approaches, drawing on their own experiences of coping with crisis situations.
The meeting equipped future police officers with practical self-help tools, enhanced their ability to recognize the early signs of psychological distress, and informed them about available professional support services. The event promoted a responsible attitude toward mental health, helped reduce the stigma associated with seeking psychological support and contributed to the successful adaptation of future police officers to the educational process.
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