War leaves deep traces not only on the land and in adults’ memories, but also in children’s hearts. Children witness shelling, occupation, the loss of loved ones, or forced displacement. These experiences are not always immediately visible, yet they can shape a child’s entire future –manifesting as anxiety, withdrawal, and difficulties with learning and social interaction.
The documentary “PTSD – Invisible Scars. Children” is meant to give a voice to those who cannot yet speak about their pain. We explore different forms of childhood trauma – from life under occupation and in captivity to the loss of parents or the daily reality of bombardment. Each story bears witness to the invisible burden children carry.
The film was created in collaboration with Ukrainian and international psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, and educators. They help explain what childhood PTSD is, how to recognize it, and how to support a child appropriately. We adhere to trauma-informed ethical standards: we do not place children in potentially retraumatizing situations. Instead, we use symbolic artistic devices – animation, reconstructions/reenactments, and visual metaphors.
The project aims not only to highlight the problem, but also to drive change. We seek to equip adults – parents, teachers, healthcare providers, and society at large – with the knowledge to create safe environments for children who have experienced war-related trauma. This film is part of the broader “PTSD – Invisible Scars” initiative, which also includes research into the experiences of service members and veterans, in order to build a comprehensive understanding of post-traumatic stress in Ukraine.
The Film Was Made By
Andrii Polikashkin
Producer / Project Lead
A film producer and member of the Union of Cinematographers of Ukraine and the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, with over two decades of experience in the film and television industry. His professional background covers the full production cycle of diverse audiovisual content – from large-scale TV series (“Sloviany” – 12 episodes; “Only Love” – 60 episodes) to historical and socially oriented feature films. Andrii Polikashkin has worked as a line and executive producer on a number of significant international co-productions, including:
- Feature films: “The Nest of the Turtledove” (Ukraine–Italy), “Red” (Ukraine–Lithuania), and “Taras. Return” (Ukraine–Kazakhstan).
- Feature film: “Toloka.”
In documentary filmmaking, his portfolio includes historical projects such as “Prince Volodymyr” and “The Symbols of Ukraine: Anthem. Coat of Arms. Flag,” as well as contemporary topics like “The Battle for Kyiv” (2022).
In recent years, the producer has actively developed innovative content, working on VR applications and VR-360 documentary films, including “The Price of Freedom,” as well as VR programs for the treatment of AUD (Alcohol Use Disorder).
Andrii Polikashkin is the co-founder of the online media platform “Virtual Ukraine” and serves as its Director.
Ivan Novyk
Producer / First Assistant Director
A producer, director, and screenwriter with over two decades of experience in the film and television industry. A member of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine. A graduate of Nizhyn Mykola Gogol State University with a teaching degree in History and Law. Studied at the Kyiv National University of Theatre and Cinema, Faculty of Film Production.
His professional background spans the full content-production cycle, frequently combining the roles of producer, writer, and director.
Ivan Novyk is one of Ukraine’s pioneers in VR filmmaking and immersive projects. He produced the short feature “Goldfish”. He has served as producer, writer, and director for a range of VR tours and presentations – “Kyiv Pechersk Lavra”, “Museum of the Formation of the Ukrainian Nation”, “Bucha Park” – and produced the VR-360 feature “Two Ends, Two Rings”, among others.
In documentary film, his credits include current war-time titles such as “The Battle for Kyiv” (2022). As a producer, he is developing the VR-360 documentary series “The Price of Freedom”. He is a co-author of socially oriented projects, including VR programs for the treatment of AUD (Alcohol Use Disorder).
Ivan Novyk is the originator of the concept and co-founder of the online media platform “Virtual Ukraine,” where he serves as Editor-in-Chief.
Thank you to our team and partners…
