A CPA and candidate with personal ties to Ukraine share how they’re drawing strength during a difficult time, in hopes to help others
Trigger warning: This story contains content about the psychological impacts of war
The crisis in Ukraine has been distressing for many Canadians, including our fellow CPAs and CPA PEP candidates.
Yuriy Shved FCCA, CPA, CGA is among those with personal ties to the country. He was born and raised in Ukraine and came to Canada six years ago, two years after Russia occupied Crimea and other territories.
“I have been devasted by the crisis,” he says, sharing that his worries have caused him to wake up at night. “I often think about the people of Ukraine and the places I love.”
Sergii Melnikov, a CPA candidate, has also been deeply impacted by the events.
A proud Ukrainian, Sergii came to Canada in 2014 and is preparing to write the CPA Common Final Examination (CFE) this spring.
“Many of us are taking the war very personally as our homeland is bleeding and suffering so much,” says Sergii. He shares that many of his loved ones have managed to escape or have stayed to fight in the war.
Sergii says that his family and children have been distressed since the start of the invasion.
“My wife and kids have been crying every day. The distress has hurt our work, studies, and other activities. It has been a huge disruption for me as I prepare for the CFE.”
Through this difficult time, both Yuriy and Sergii were compelled to share their experience to let others know that they are not alone.
To support their fellow CPAs, Yuriy, Sergii, and the team at CPA Assist have provided a few ways to take care of your mental health during a crisis.
Keep your routine and continue healthy habits
Healthy habits are connected to your mental and physical health.
“You need to stay strong to be able to help other people,” Yuriy says.
The Canadian Mental Health Association and Here to Help BC offer tips for taking care of your body to support your mental health.
Stay informed with reliable sources and avoid too much exposure
Staying up-to-date with the news and sharing information with others may be important to you during this time.
“I am sharing news stories to help others stay informed,” says Sergii.
Both Sergii and Yuriy agree that it’s important to check the sources of information and take breaks from news updates.
Show your support for others
Research has found that volunteering can improve mental health.
Showing support for others during this time could mean connecting with and supporting the Ukrainian community and refugee support groups, signing petitions, writing to government officials, or donating to charities that providing humanitarian aid.
Both Yuriy and Sergii are volunteering for local relief efforts, meeting with support groups, making donations, signing petitions, and encouraging others to do the same. They both express that doing something to help Ukraine is helping them both.
“Even though it doesn’t feel like much or remove the worry, I feel some relief knowing I am trying,” says Sergii.
Seek psychological support
CPA Assist provides confidential support to Alberta and Saskatchewan CPAs, candidates, and their immediate families. One phone call can make the difference.
Access CPA Assist’s confidential support line at 1-855-596-4222 or email cpaforbes@telus.net to book a confidential appointment.
If you or your family members are struggling, remember there is help available.
Humanitarian Aid Efforts
Learn about a few humanitarian aid efforts in Canada:
Canada-Ukraine Foundation
Canadian Red Cross
Doctors Without Borders/MSF Canada
Unicef Canada
World Vision Canada