How to maintain a relationship despite distance and time during war

This webinar explores how couples can maintain emotional closeness during prolonged separation, uncertainty, and the challenges of wartime.

Together with Viktoriia Dolhova, a physician and psychotherapist, military spouse, and veteran, we will explore three key topics:

1. How do war, distance, and time change relationships?

What happens to intimacy when partners spend long periods apart? Why do our reactions, expectations, and needs change? How does war affect the psychological well-being of both the partner at home and the partner serving in the military, and how can they better understand each other’s experiences?

2. How can we maintain a relationship despite distance and time?

How can we express our feelings and needs, listen to each other, and work through misunderstandings? How can we preserve a sense of togetherness, establish shared rituals, and maintain an emotional connection when opportunities to communicate are limited? We will explore practical communication skills that help partners stay close, even when they are apart.

3. Why is living your own life not a betrayal of your relationship?

How can we allow ourselves to experience joy, make plans, and appreciate everyday moments without feeling guilty? Why do we not have to be strong all the time? We will discuss how to acknowledge personal needs and achievements, restore emotional resources, and continue living without putting everything on hold until a loved one returns.

The webinar will help participants better understand themselves and their partners, develop practical skills for communication and discover ways to maintain emotional closeness during wartime.