Group Therapy Session: Remembering the Blockade and Sharing Feelings

Psychological group therapy continues to be an essential part of Hanganak’s work, creating a safe and supportive environment where our beneficiaries can share their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. The most recent session, led by psychotherapist Dr. Anahit Lalayan, Head of the Empathy Mental Health Center, touched upon a deeply emotional theme — memories of the Artsakh blockade and the feelings it evoked.

Dr. Lalayan encouraged participants to reflect on that difficult period and express what it meant to them personally. Almost everyone took part in the conversation, openly sharing their emotions, fears, and reflections. Many spoke with deep longing and resilience, saying that despite all the hardships, they would have preferred to live under blockade — as long as it meant being in their homeland.

Such heartfelt discussions help participants not only process painful memories but also find strength in shared understanding and collective healing. The session once again showed how important it is to talk, listen, and support one another through psychological guidance and empathy.

Adding warmth to the meeting, our young volunteer, Anush Kasyan, joined the session and prepared tea for the participants, creating an atmosphere of care and comfort.

At Hanganak, we believe that psychological well-being is essential to dignity and resilience. Through these sessions, our beneficiaries find not only support but also connection — a reminder that their voices and experiences matter.