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Naal H, Alaeddine R, Brome D, Daou T, Hudroj L, el Sayed I, Soubra R, Hokayem J, Ghalayini M, Slim W, Saleh S. Capacity building and community of practice for women community health workers in low-resource settings: long-term evaluation of the Mobile University For Health (MUH). Front Glob Womens Health 2024; 5:1304954. [PMID: 38832109 PMCID: PMC11144904 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2024.1304954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Lebanon has been facing a series of crises, significantly increasing health challenges, and straining its healthcare infrastructure. This caused deficiencies in the system's ability to attend to population health needs, and it profoundly impacted vulnerable and refugee communities who face additional challenges accessing healthcare services. In response, the Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut designed and implemented the Mobile University for Health (MUH), which promotes task-shifting through capacity building complemented by communities of practice (CoP). The program aimed to prepare vulnerable women to assume the role of community health workers (CHW) within their communities, and to promote positive health knowledge and behaviours. Methods A mixed-methods approach was used to evaluate MUHs' three certificates (women's health, mental health and psychosocial support, and non-communicable diseases). Implementation took place between 2019 and 2022, with 83 CHWs graduating from the program. Short-term data including knowledge assessments, course evaluations, and community member feedback surveys were collected. 93 semi-structured interviews with CHWs and 14 focus group discussions with community members were conducted to evaluate the long-term impact of the capacity building and CoP components. Results Data revealed multiple strengths of the initiative, including increased access to education for the community, effectiveness of blended learning modality, successful planning and delivery of CoP sessions, and improved knowledge, skills, and health behaviours over time. The supplementary CoP sessions fostered trust in CHWs, increased community empowerment, and increased leadership skills among CHWs. However, some challenges persisted, including limited access to healthcare services, implementation logistical issues, difficulties with some aspects of the learning modality, and some resistance within the communities. Conclusion MUH promoted and improved positive health knowledge and behaviours within targeted vulnerable populations in Lebanon. The supplementary CoP component proved instrumental in empowering CHWs and enhancing their impact within their communities. The study highlights the need for ongoing training and support for CHWs and underscores the importance of continued investment and adaptation of such initiatives through a gendered lens. This evaluation provides evidence on the successes of a capacity building model that has strong potential for scale and replication across health topics in conflict-affected contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hady Naal
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Reem Alaeddine
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dayana Brome
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Tracy Daou
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Laura Hudroj
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Israa el Sayed
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Racha Soubra
- Department of Health Management, Evaluation and Policy, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Joanne Hokayem
- School of Public Health, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Mohamad Ghalayini
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Waed Slim
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Shadi Saleh
- Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Madsen J, Jobson L, Slewa-Younan S, Li H, King K. Mental health literacy among Arab men living in high-income Western countries: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. Soc Sci Med 2024; 346:116718. [PMID: 38489937 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
While interest in mental health literacy (MHL) is growing rapidly, cross-cultural research focusing on MHL is developing more slowly. This inaugural systematic review explored the recognition and beliefs about the causes of mental health disorders amongst Arab men living in high income Western countries (HIWC), their help-seeking beliefs, behaviors, and sources of help, as well as barriers and facilitators to help-seeking. Six electronic database searches were conducted using Medline, Embase, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. These searches yielded a total of 9,460 citations. After applying inclusion criteria through both database and manual hand searches, 46 studies were identified. The findings corresponded with four of the socioecological model's five factors: intrapersonal, interpersonal, societal, and institutional. Intrapersonal factors included attributing mental health illness to life and migration stressors, and religious reasons. Interpersonal and societal factors included men favoring informal help-seeking sources as stigma was a barrier to formal help-seeking. Institutional factors around the perceived cultural competence of healthcare professionals and access difficulties were obstacles to seeking formal help. The growth in Arab migration to HIWC highlights the need for culturally tailored care. Research is needed to understand the perspectives of healthcare providers working with Arab men in addition to how men's stigmatizing attitudes are an obstacle to formal help-seeking. Interventions should be designed to address the unique mental health needs of Arab men, recognizing that some explanatory beliefs may not align with current Western models of mental health. Moreover, efforts should be made to integrate men's informal sources of support into treatment planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Madsen
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Building 17, 18 Innovation Walk, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Laura Jobson
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Building 17, 18 Innovation Walk, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Shameran Slewa-Younan
- Macarthur Clinical School, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 275, Australia.
| | - Haoxiang Li
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Building 17, 18 Innovation Walk, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Kylie King
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Building 17, 18 Innovation Walk, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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Gasnier M, Aouizerat A, Chappell K, Baubet T, Corruble E. Psychotic and Somatic Symptoms Are Frequent in Refugees With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Narrative Review. J Psychiatr Pract 2024; 30:104-118. [PMID: 38526398 DOI: 10.1097/pra.0000000000000772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2021, 89.3 million refugees were vulnerable to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after exposure to multiple and repeated traumatic experiences. The recent war in Ukraine provoked 7 million refugees to flee their homes. Specific clinical presentations of PTSD in refugee populations may not be familiar to most physicians. The goal of this review is to describe the diagnosis and specific clinical features of PTSD in refugees. METHODS This narrative review of 263 articles explores 3 PTSD diagnoses that are frequently described in refugee populations and that have been observed in our clinical practices: complex PTSD, PTSD with psychotic symptoms, and PTSD with somatic symptoms. RESULTS While complex PTSD does not seem to be related to individuals' culture and origin, the other 2 diagnoses have been specifically described in refugee populations. PTSD with somatic manifestations appears to be the most frequently described and commonly acknowledged form in refugee populations, whereas PTSD with psychotic symptoms remains more controversial due to its clinical variability and association with comorbid disorders. CONCLUSIONS The difficulty of identifying PTSD with psychotic symptoms and PTSD with somatic symptoms in refugee populations may lead to misdiagnosis and explain the moderate effectiveness of care delivered to these populations. Appropriate diagnosis is essential to provide optimal psychiatric care to refugee populations.
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Nasar S, Nadim ASM, Raz S, Jabbar A, Hossain MR, Aktar B, Rahman MS, Rashid SF. Livelihood challenges of single female household heads in the Rohingya and host communities in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2084. [PMID: 37875875 PMCID: PMC10599043 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16964-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following the mass influx of Rohingya refugees into Cox's Bazaar, Bangladesh in 2017, makeshift settlement camps in Ukhiya and Teknaf have been overburdened, leading to livelihood challenges for both Rohingya and host communities. The humanitarian crisis has had adverse effects on vulnerable populations, which include older people, persons with disabilities, adolescents, and single female household heads. Using a subset of a larger dataset on households with most vulnerable groups in both communities, we analysed the effect of the pandemic and lockdown on the livelihood of single female household (HH) heads. METHODS A cross-sectional household roster survey was designed to collect data from households with most vulnerable groups (MVGs) of host and Rohingya communities from December 2020 to March 2021; 11 host community villages and 10 Rohingya camps purposively selected as per the affiliated intervention of the project. The paper analysed quantitative and qualitative data from the sub-group of single female household heads without any income/low income. Participants were surveyed for their socio-demographic characteristics, COVID-19 experiences and knowledge, food security situation, social experiences and mental health using PHQ-2 test for depression. RESULTS We surveyed 432 single female HH heads. Support during the pandemic was reported to be low, with less than 50% of HHs reporting relief meeting their needs; only 36% and 15% of these HHs received rations in camps and host communities respectively. Loan facilities were mostly unavailable and there were reported insufficiencies in food consumption. Over 50% of respondents tested positive on the PHQ-2, a scale used to screen for depression. Further analyses indicates that having a chronic health issue (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.33-3.66) was positively associated with the PHQ-2 score for Rohingya single females. For host single females, having an ill member in the HH (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.02-2.08) and the inability to save before the pandemic (OR 1.57 95% CI 1.11-2.23) increased the odds of screening positive for depression. CONCLUSION Our study findings revealed insufficiencies with economic opportunities and food security for single female-headed households, as well as a high rate of positive screening for depression amongst this population. These findings call for a more in-depth understanding of the needs of this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameen Nasar
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, 6th Floor Medona Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh.
| | | | - Saifa Raz
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, 6th Floor Medona Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, 6th Floor Medona Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Muhammad Riaz Hossain
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, 6th Floor Medona Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Bachera Aktar
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, 6th Floor Medona Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - M Shafiqur Rahman
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, 6th Floor Medona Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
- Institute of Statistical Research and Training, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sabina Faiz Rashid
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, 6th Floor Medona Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
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Khatib HE, Alyafei A, Shaikh M. Understanding experiences of mental health help-seeking in Arab populations around the world: a systematic review and narrative synthesis. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:324. [PMID: 37161342 PMCID: PMC10170733 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04827-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racial and ethnic disparities in mental health service utilisation and access is well established. Mental illness is common among Arab populations globally, but most individuals display negative attitudes towards mental health and do not seek professional help. The aim of this systematic review was to determine 1) help-seeking behaviours 2) help-seeking attitudes and 3) help-seeking barriers and facilitators, related to mental health services among Arab adults. METHOD A pre-defined search strategy and eligibility criteria allowed for database searching using terms related to: mental health, Arabs, help-seeking, as well as experiences and behaviours. Seventy-four articles were included and analysed through narrative synthesis. Results were reported using the PRISMA guidelines. The review protocol was registered prospectively on PROSPERO (CRD42022319889). RESULTS Arabs across the world have negative attitudes towards formal help-seeking and are reluctant to seek help, despite the presence of psychological distress. There is little information on factors that influence help-seeking behaviours and rates of service use. Preference for informal help sources such as family and friends were expressed and considered more acceptable. Low mental health literacy, stigma, gender, age, education, religion, acculturation, and immigrant status were the most common factors influencing help-seeking attitudes. Barriers to help-seeking included stigma, privacy and confidentiality, trust, mental health literacy, language, logistics, and culture related barriers. Increasing societal and family awareness, external support and encouragement, shared culture between the client and therapist, quality of doctor patient relationship, and feelings of connectedness with the host country among refugees were mentioned facilitators. Mixed findings for the role of religion, and family and community, in relation to facilitating or hindering help-seeking were reported. CONCLUSIONS There is an increased likelihood and preference to seek informal sources of psychological support among Arabs. Contextual and cultural factors impeding help-seeking for Arabs are common across the world. Future research should address actual utilisation rates of services to better understand factors that influence help-seeking behaviours and facilitators to help-seeking. Increasing mental health literacy and developing anti stigma campaigns is necessary. Developing culturally informed interventions should inform future efforts to promote help-seeking among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hania El Khatib
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Aisha Alyafei
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Madiha Shaikh
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK.
- North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
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Understanding mental health from the perception of Middle Eastern refugee women: A critical systematic review. SSM - MENTAL HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmmh.2022.100130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Rayan A. Cultural Misconceptions, Attitudes, Knowledge, and Beliefs About Mental Illness Among Jordanian Nurses Working in Psychiatric Units. J Contin Educ Nurs 2022; 53:513-520. [PMID: 36318712 DOI: 10.3928/00220124-20221006-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Background This study examined cultural misconceptions and attitudes about mental illness and their correlates among Jordanian nurses working in psychiatric units. Method A descriptive, cross-sectional, correlational research design was used. A sample of 157 mental health nurses completed the study. Participants provided information about their demographics and attitudes, knowledge, and cultural misconceptions regarding mental illness. Results Negative attitudes toward mental illness were associated with sex, workplace, marital status, age, income, and years of experience. Stigma toward mental illness was associated with sex, workplace, marital status, age, years of experience, and knowledge regarding mental illness. Various cultural myths and beliefs regarding mental illness were reported. Attitudes and stigma toward mental illness differed based on cultural myths and beliefs. Conclusion Educational programs to raise awareness of and reduce stigma toward mental illness are required not only for the general public but also for some health care providers working in psychiatric units. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2022;53(11):513-520.].
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What mental illness means in different cultures: Perceptions of mental health among refugees from various countries of origin. Ment Health (Lond) 2022. [DOI: 10.56508/mhgcj.v5i2.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Mental illness remains a significant issue in refugees worldwide. Internationally, there continues to be stigma surrounding mental health, mental illness, and mental health treatment. Cultural stigma is just one of many barriers to mental healthcare for refugees. Perceptions of mental health are culture-specific and continue to play a role in refugees.
Purpose: The purpose of this review study is to make distinctions between the perceptions of mental health of refugees based on country of origin because knowing these cultural differences has the potential to improve refugee mental healthcare. This knowledge could contribute to treatment approaches and help break some of the barriers to mental healthcare for refugees.
Methodology: An extensive literature review of relevant articles published between 2000-2021 was performed using the databases APA PsycInfo, Global Health, MEDLINE via Ovid, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, and Google Scholar. The following search terms, in addition to other related and relevant terms, were used: “mental health, refugees, mental health barriers, perceptions of mental illness, country of origin.”
Results: There were both numerous similarities and differences between the perceptions of mental health among refugees from different cultures. There were similarities in terms of mental health stigma, with certain cultures thinking of mental health/illness as taboo, as shameful, or associating it with evil spirits. A few of the cultures studied had similar ideas about the causes of mental illness, believing it was due to traumatic events or possession by evil spirits. The refugee groups had some common treatment options, including informal conversation, religious-based ideas, and community-level solutions. Some differences between refugees from different cultures involved certain symptoms associated with mental health, including physical symptoms, and differing degrees of religiosity.
Discussion: Based on studies reviewed about the perceptions of mental health of various refugee cultures, many recommendations are proposed to improve refugee mental healthcare. Suggestions include focusing on cultural competency and community-level solutions, in addition to implementing mobile health clinics and telehealth.
Conclusions: This review discusses the perceptions of mental health, mental illness, and mental health treatment of refugees from numerous countries of origin. It is unique in its inclusion of different groups of refugees. Culture seems to play a significant role in the perceptions encountered. Keeping culture in mind, several recommendations are made to improve refugee mental healthcare, such as more integrative treatment methods and telehealth.
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Park AL, Waldmann T, Kösters M, Tedeschi F, Nosè M, Ostuzzi G, Purgato M, Turrini G, Välimäki M, Lantta T, Anttila M, Wancata J, Friedrich F, Acartürk C, Ilkkursun Z, Uygun E, Eskici S, Cuijpers P, Sijbrandij M, White RG, Popa M, Carswell K, Au T, Kilian R, Barbui C. Cost-effectiveness of the Self-Help Plus Intervention for Adult Syrian Refugees Hosted in Turkey. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2211489. [PMID: 35536574 PMCID: PMC9092202 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.11489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance The cost-effectiveness of the Self-Help Plus (SH+) program, a group-based, guided, self-help psychological intervention developed by the World Health Organization for people affected by adversity, is unclear. Objective To investigate the cost-utility of providing the SH+ intervention combined with enhanced usual care vs enhanced usual care alone for Syrian refugees or asylum seekers hosted in Turkey. Design, Setting, and Participants This economic evaluation was performed as a prespecified part of an assessor-blinded randomized clinical trial conducted between October 1, 2018, and November 30, 2019, with 6-month follow-up. A total of 627 adults with psychological distress but no diagnosed psychiatric disorder were randomly assigned to the intervention group or the enhanced usual care group. Interventions The SH+ program was a 5-session (2 hours each), group-based, stress management course in which participants learned self-help skills for managing stress by listening to audio sessions. The SH+ sessions were facilitated by briefly trained, nonspecialist individuals, and an illustrated book was provided to group members. Th intervention group received the SH+ intervention plus enhanced usual care; the control group received only enhanced usual care from the local health care system. Enhanced usual care included access to free health care services provided by primary and secondary institutions plus details on nongovernmental organizations and freely available mental health services, social services, and community networks for people under temporary protection of Turkey and refugees. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome measure was incremental cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained from the perspective of the Turkish health care system. An intention-to-treat analysis was used including all participants who were randomized and for whom baseline data on costs and QALYs were available. Data were analyzed September 30, 2020, to July 30, 2021. Results Of 627 participants (mean [SD] age, 31.3 [9.0] years; 393 [62.9%] women), 313 were included in the analysis for the SH+ group and 314 in the analysis for the enhanced usual care group. An incremental cost-utility ratio estimate of T£6068 ($1147) per QALY gained was found when the SH+ intervention was provided to groups of 10 Syrian refugees. At a willingness to pay per QALY gained of T£14 831 ($2802), the SH+ intervention had a 97.5% chance of being cost-effective compared with enhanced usual care alone. Conclusions and Relevance This economic evaluation suggests that implementation of the SH+ intervention compared with enhanced usual care alone for adult Syrian refugees or asylum seekers hosted in Turkey is cost-effective from the perspective of the Turkish health care system when both international and country-specific willingness-to-pay thresholds were applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-La Park
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, University of Ulm and BKH Günzburg, Ulm, Germany
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tamara Waldmann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, University of Ulm and BKH Günzburg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus Kösters
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, University of Ulm and BKH Günzburg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Federico Tedeschi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michela Nosè
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ostuzzi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Purgato
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Turrini
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maritta Välimäki
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Finland
- School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China
| | - Tella Lantta
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Minna Anttila
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Johannes Wancata
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna Austria
| | - Fabian Friedrich
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna Austria
| | - Ceren Acartürk
- Department of Psychology, Koc University, Sariyer, Istanbul,Turkey
| | - Zeynep Ilkkursun
- Department of Psychology, Koc University, Sariyer, Istanbul,Turkey
| | - Ersin Uygun
- Trauma and Disaster Mental Health, Istanbul Bilgi University, Eyüpsultan/Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevde Eskici
- Department of Psychology, Istanbul Koc University, Sariyer, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ross G White
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Mariana Popa
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kenneth Carswell
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Teresa Au
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Reinhold Kilian
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, University of Ulm and BKH Günzburg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Mansour W, Arjyal A, Hughes C, Gbaoh ET, Fouad FM, Wurie H, Kyaw HK, Tartaggia J, Hawkins K, Than KK, Kallon LH, Saad MA, Chand O, Win PM, Yamout R, Regmi S, Baral S, Theobald S, Raven J. Health systems resilience in fragile and shock-prone settings through the prism of gender equity and justice: implications for research, policy and practice. Confl Health 2022; 16:7. [PMID: 35189938 PMCID: PMC8860254 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00439-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Fragile and shock-prone settings (FASP) present a critical development challenge, eroding efforts to build healthy, sustainable and equitable societies. Power relations and inequities experienced by people because of social markers, e.g., gender, age, education, ethnicity, and race, intersect leading to poverty and associated health challenges. Concurrent to the growing body of literature exploring the impact of these intersecting axes of inequity in FASP settings, there is a need to identify actions promoting gender, equity, and justice (GEJ). Gender norms that emphasise toxic masculinity, patriarchy, societal control over women and lack of justice are unfortunately common throughout the world and are exacerbated in FASP settings. It is critical that health policies in FASP settings consider GEJ and include strategies that promote progressive changes in power relationships. ReBUILD for Resilience (ReBUILD) focuses on health systems resilience in FASP settings and is underpinned by a conceptual framework that is grounded in a broader view of health systems as complex adaptive systems. The framework identifies links between different capacities and enables identification of feedback loops which can drive or inhibit the emergence and implementation of resilient approaches. We applied the framework to four different country case studies (Lebanon, Myanmar, Nepal and Sierra Leone) to illustrate how it can be inclusive of GEJ concerns, to inform future research and support context responsive recommendations to build equitable and inclusive health systems in FASP settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesam Mansour
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
| | | | | | - Emma Tiange Gbaoh
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Fouad Mohamed Fouad
- Faculty of Health and Sciences, American University in Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Haja Wurie
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | | | | | | | - Lansana Hassim Kallon
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Maya Abou Saad
- Faculty of Health and Sciences, American University in Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | | | - Rouham Yamout
- Faculty of Health and Sciences, American University in Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | | | - Sally Theobald
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Joanna Raven
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
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Lies J, Jobson L, Mascaro L, Whyman T, Drummond SPA. Postmigration stress and sleep disturbances mediate the relationship between trauma exposure and posttraumatic stress symptoms among Syrian and Iraqi refugees. J Clin Sleep Med 2021; 17:479-489. [PMID: 33141012 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.8972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES Sleep disturbance is common in those who experience trauma. In a sample of nontreatment-seeking refugees, we examined the associations between trauma exposure, postmigration stress, sleep symptoms, and posttraumatic psychological symptoms. METHODS Syrian and Iraqi refugees (n = 86; 51% female; mean age = 45 years) residing in Australia were recruited from the local community. Cross-sectional descriptive design, multinominal regression analyses, and mediation analyses were used. Participants completed measures in Arabic assessing premigration trauma exposure, postmigration stress, sleep symptoms, and mental health. They also completed 7 days of sleep diaries and actigraphy. RESULTS We identified 34.9% of the participants as normal sleepers, 32.6% as probably having insomnia, and 32.6% as likely having insomnia. Variables associated with greater sleep disturbance (McFadden's R² = 0.57) included greater trauma exposure, increased time of resettlement, greater postmigration stress, and greater presleep arousal. The association of premigration trauma exposure to current posttraumatic symptoms was mediated sequentially by postmigration stress and sleep symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the extent of sleep disturbance in refugees. We found evidence for an indirect pathway between trauma exposure and posttraumatic symptoms through premigration stress and sleep (particularly presleep arousal). In the current global refugee crisis, improving the existing system of care in countries experiencing increased migration is critical. Because sleep disturbance is a modifiable condition associated with mental health, targeting sleep could be an important component of psychological interventions for refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- July Lies
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura Jobson
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Luis Mascaro
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Theoni Whyman
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sean P A Drummond
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Lindegaard T, Kashoush F, Holm S, Halaj A, Berg M, Andersson G. Experiences of internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy for depression and anxiety among Arabic-speaking individuals in Sweden: a qualitative study. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:288. [PMID: 34082745 PMCID: PMC8173836 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03297-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) is a promising treatment for refugee and immigrant populations suffering from common mental disorders. The aim of the present study was to investigate experiences of participating in a guided ICBT program among resettled Arabic-speaking individuals suffering from symptoms of anxiety and depression. METHODS Ten individuals who had previously received ICBT consented to participate and were interviewed using semi-structured telephone interviews. The interviews were conducted 10 months after treatment termination. Data were transcribed and analysed using a Thematic Analysis framework. RESULTS The Thematic Analysis resulted in five overarching themes 1) The importance of being seen, 2) New ways of knowing and doing, 3) Treatment format not for everyone, 4) Changing attitudes towards mental health and help-seeking and 5) The healthcare system as a complex puzzle. Participants described varying levels of success in applying the new information learned from the treatment in their everyday lives. The results also indicate that participation in the ICBT program to some extent mitigated mental health stigma and acted as a precursor to other forms of treatment seeking. CONCLUSIONS The findings in the present study are largely in line with previous qualitative research studies on ICBT participants. Future research should investigate whether a more explicit focus on refugee-specific stressors and barriers to treatment engagement and implementation can increase adherence to ICBT programs in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Lindegaard
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, SE-581 83, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Fatima Kashoush
- grid.5640.70000 0001 2162 9922Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Sara Holm
- grid.5640.70000 0001 2162 9922Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Asala Halaj
- grid.9619.70000 0004 1937 0538Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Matilda Berg
- grid.5640.70000 0001 2162 9922Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- grid.5640.70000 0001 2162 9922Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden ,grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.5640.70000 0001 2162 9922Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Naal H, Nabulsi D, El Arnaout N, Abdouni L, Dimassi H, Harb R, Saleh S. Prevalence of depression symptoms and associated sociodemographic and clinical correlates among Syrian refugees in Lebanon. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:217. [PMID: 33499834 PMCID: PMC7836044 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10266-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the outbreak of the Syrian war in 2011, close to 6 million Syrian refugees have escaped to Syria's neighbouring countries, including Lebanon. Evidence suggests rising levels of mental health disorders among Syrian refugee populations. Yet, to the best of our knowledge, large-scale studies addressing the mental health of adult Syrian refugees in Lebanon are lacking. We examined the prevalence of depression symptoms, which represent a common and debilitating mental health disorder among Syrian refugee populations in Lebanon, along with their sociodemographic and clinical correlates. METHODS A cross-sectional survey design was conducted as part of a collaborative project-"Sijilli"- led by the Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut (Beirut, Lebanon) across 4 informal tented settlements for refugees (Beirut, Bekaa, North, South) in Lebanon among adult Syrian refugees (≥18), over a period extending from 2018 to 2020. The survey inquired about participants' sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and screened participants for symptoms of depression through sequential methodology using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2 and PHQ-9). RESULTS A total of 3255 adult Syrian refugees were enrolled in the study. Of those refugees, 46.73% (n = 1521) screened positive on the PHQ-2 and were therefore eligible to complete the PHQ-9. In the entire sample (n = 3255), the prevalence of moderate to severe depression symptoms (PHQ-2 ≥ 2 and then PHQ-9 ≥ 10) was 22% (n = 706). Further analyses indicate that being ≥45 years of age (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.13-2.30), a woman (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.06-1.70), widowed (OR 2.88, 95% CI 1.31-6.32), reporting a neurological (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.15-2.60) or a mental health condition (OR 3.98, 95% CI 1.76-8.97) are major risk factors for depression. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that an estimated one in four Syrian refugees in Lebanon shows moderate to severe depression symptoms, and our findings have important public health and clinical implications on refugee health. There is a need to enhance screening efforts, to improve access and referral to mental health services, and to improve post-migration factors among Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hady Naal
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dana Nabulsi
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nour El Arnaout
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lina Abdouni
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani Dimassi
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ranime Harb
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Shadi Saleh
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Johnson KA. God. . . Karma, Jinn, spirits, and other metaphysical forces. Curr Opin Psychol 2020; 40:10-14. [PMID: 32866853 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Humans have a natural tendency to explain events as caused by metaphysical or supernatural beings and forces. Much of the research in the psychology of religion over the past few years has focused on explanations and experiences involving a person-like God, whether God is authoritarian and/or benevolent, and the extent to which people think of God as being involved in human affairs. Yet many theists think of God in more abstract terms. Moreover, people in every religious tradition and culture believe in other metaphysical beings and forces. These beliefs and related experiences may reflect, and even predict, a believer's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. More precise measures and innovative methodologies are needed to investigate the great variability in metaphysical beliefs.
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