World Refugee Day 2025

On World Refugee Day, the Refugee Council of Lithuania would like to share a small yet powerful self-care practice recommended by a gestalt therapist. It is especially relevant for those living through forced displacement.

For our team, this topic is deeply personal. Many of us are refugees ourselves. We understand the emotional toll of leaving everything behind and starting over in unfamiliar surroundings.

At our recent networking event, our colleague Olga, a gestalt therapist, shared a practice designed to help people reconnect with themselves during difficult times:

1. Write down at least 10 signs that indicate when you need support — emotionally, mentally, or physically.

2. List 10 things that help you recover and recharge. These can be anything from a full vacation to a short walk in nature.

3. Each morning, take a few minutes to plan your day with intention.

4. In the evening, reflect. What gave you energy? What left you feeling drained? What moments stood out? Name them. Feel them. Be present with yourself.

Taking care of your basic needs — rest, clarity, emotional grounding — is not optional. It is a personal responsibility and a crucial part of resilience.

Because before you can ask for help, you need to recognize that you need it.

Today, we stand in solidarity with every person forced to flee. And we remind you: even small acts of self-care are a form of strength.