We all know the so-called Maslow’s pyramid. According to this scheme, a person’s creative self-realization is far removed from his basic needs, such as getting food and a secure home.
Our psyche is set up in such a way that we accumulate basic resources first, and only after securing that foundation can we begin to care for the sublime.
Unfortunately, refugees are usually in a vulnerable position, deprived of the most basic necessities – food, clothing and shelter. Even the most sought-after professionals in their home countries are forced to start from scratch, taking their first small steps in the new world.
This is why migration is often compared to death in terms of stress. For the Ukrainian refugees, this metaphor only intensifies its meaning, because they were really looking death in the eye. Many lost loved ones in this war, others had their house destroyed along with their belongings and documents.</p
There are negative stereotypes about Ukrainians coming to ask for help from a safe zone without fighting or with a brand new Mercedes. But in reality, anyone born in a country at war is experiencing psychological trauma, and car owners also have nothing to buy food without their regular jobs and with their savings burned.
There are many cases where successful people, including talented musicians and artists, are forced to take the most primitive jobs in a foreign country. They have to learn a language, go through bureaucratic difficulties. One has to forget about personal ambitions and the call of the heart for at least a year or two.
Only a few people have continued their creative work in a new country since the early days. These are mostly young people who live for today or have internet friends all over the world.
But no one has canceled those hard times they will have to overcome.
Maslow’s Pyramid of Refugees
There are many small steps separating those fleeing war from full-fledged creativity. Only those who have created for themselves know how difficult it is to enter the resource state and find inspiration, even in the most peaceful and tranquil conditions.
The task becomes much more difficult abroad.
Physiological needs
The victims of war are deeply grateful to the volunteers and humanitarian funds who are providing assistance. But let’s be honest, it’s usually the most basic foods like pasta, sugar and flour.
This is so far from healthy eating recommendations. After severe concussions, the body especially needs a good dose of vitamins, but in new abnormal conditions, no one will indulge themselves.
The food is very simple and primitive, like in the army. The same goes for the roof over their head – they have to completely forget about personal space.
Ukrainian refugees often live in hostels or rent apartments with a group of friends to make it cheaper. This means that this rung of the pyramid has not been fully overcome.
The Need for Security
After crossing the border, overhead missiles certainly no longer fly over their head. The sirens that caused panic attacks and insomnia are not heard.
But is that enough to feel safe? Isolation from society, lack of friendliness from people of different political stance, lack of clear status and confidence in the future – this is what fills the thoughts of a refugee.
Love and feeling part of the whole
Ukrainian migrants are bolstered by the realization that they have also saved their relatives and pets. They try to feel a sense of community with their people and national spirit by attending themed events.
But the acute sense of loneliness and isolation remains their constant companion.
Respect for Others
The reality is that refugees are really at the bottom of the social ladder. The most conscientious citizens will express sympathy for them, but respect must be earned.
To meet this need, many Ukrainians are also volunteering or taking on new responsibilities themselves. This, too, is a difficult path that is accompanied by fatigue and burnout.
Worldview
Slowly we move to more spiritual and more intellectual needs that can bring pure joy.
The charm of the Bulgarian language, the freshness of new information, the curiosity about culture and history bring great diversity to the lives of Ukrainian refugees.
People like to put their knowledge into practice, especially when there is enough material out there to study for a long time.
Aesthetic needs
The creative person needs to accumulate beauty in order to create their own works. Everyone else needs aesthetics for emotional restoration and peace of mind.
The country’s beautiful nature and architecture are most conducive to inner healing – but only after the closure of their basic needs.
self-expression and inner growth
After going through these six most important steps, one is finally ready to create.
Although sponsors can provide art materials and musical equipment, only one person can go all the way through the previous. At his own pace, with his ups and downs.
Supporting all these stages is only possible with a joint effort. If new friends are encouraging, new colleagues treat them as equals, and new neighbors and employees provide the necessary information, then creative people can overcome the stigma of being a refugee and reach their full potential.
