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Ziyachi M, Castellani B. A 'Cultural Models' Approach to Psychotherapy for Refugees and Asylum Seekers: A Case Study from the UK. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:650. [PMID: 38791864 PMCID: PMC11121039 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21050650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Despite the existence of significant research on the mental health care challenges of migrants, particularly refugees and asylum seekers, less attention has been paid to treatment approaches. We used a case study from the UK to look at the topic from a cultural models approach (which comes from cognitive anthropology) to analyse migrants' experiences with mental health care. Twenty-five refugees and asylum seekers living in North East England and Northern Ireland were interviewed who had used at least six sessions of talking therapy during the last three years. Our results suggested that adopting a 'cultural models' approach, which offers a new conceptual and methodological framework of migrants' experiences and their underlying schemas and expectations, would significantly contribute to building therapeutic alliances and provide relevant and appropriate treatments for migrant clients, particularly for unrecognised pre- and post-migration traumatic experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohaddeseh Ziyachi
- Department of Sociology, Durham University, Stockton Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK;
- Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Durham University, Stockton Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Brian Castellani
- Department of Sociology, Durham University, Stockton Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK;
- Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Durham University, Stockton Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
- Durham Research Methods Centre, Durham University, Stockton Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
- Centre for the Evaluation of Complexity Across the Nexus, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
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Lee K, Kronick R, Miconi D, Rousseau C. Moving Forward in Mental Health Care for Refugee, Asylum-Seeking, and Undocumented Children: Social Determinants, Phased Approach to Care, and Advocacy. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2024; 33:237-250. [PMID: 38395508 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Given the current political and climate crisis, the number of forcedly displaced individuals continues to rise, posing new challenges to host societies aiming to support and respond to the needs of those fleeing war or persecution. In this article, we turn our attention to current and historical sociopolitical contexts influencing the mental health of forcedly displaced children (ie, refugee, asylum-seeking, and undocumented) during their resettlement in high-income countries, proposing timely ways to respond to evolving needs and recommendations to redress ubiquitous structural inequities that act as barriers to education and care for the children, youth, and families seeking sanctuary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keven Lee
- Division of Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute, 3755 Côte Ste-Catherine Road, Montreal, Quebec.
| | - Rachel Kronick
- Division of Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute, 3755 Côte Ste-Catherine Road, Montreal, Quebec
| | - Diana Miconi
- Department of Educational Psychology and Adult Education, Université de Montréal, 90 Vincent D'Indy Avenue, Outremont, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Cécile Rousseau
- Division of Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Keskin A, Dagcioglu BF. Quality of Life and Psychometric Characteristics of Syrian Refugee Physicians Who Migrated to Turkey: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Clin Pract 2023; 2023:6654937. [PMID: 38094991 PMCID: PMC10718952 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6654937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The concept of migration comes with various problems, affecting the quality of life and psychological state of immigrants. This study aimed to investigate the quality of life and depression and anxiety states of physicians who immigrated to Turkey after the civil war that started in Syria in 2011. Methods In this cross-sectional study, a sociodemographic questionnaire form, the short version of the World Health Organization's quality of life assessment tool (WHOQOL-BREF), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were applied to Syrian doctors who received integration training to work in refugee health centers established for immigrants in Turkey. Results A total of 570 participants were included in the study. The median scores of WHOQOL-BREF domains of the participants were 75 for DOM1 (min: 25, max: 100, IQR: 18), 69 for DOM2 (min: 6, max: 100, IQR: 25), 69 for DOM3 (min: 0, max: 100, IQR: 19), and 63 for DOM4 (min: 0, max: 94, IQR: 19). The median BDI score of the participants was 7 (min: 0, max: 41, IQR: 8), and the median BAI score was 5 (min: 0, max: 50, IQR: 8). Having primary care experience, having knowledge about the Turkish healthcare system, believing that they can adapt to work in refugee health centers, and not having a plan to return to their country were found to be associated with a higher score in at least one of the WHOQOL-BREF subdomains. Planning to turn back their country was significantly associated with higher BAI scores. Conclusions The overall quality of life of most refugee physicians in Turkey was high, and the BDI and BAI scores were also below the threshold values. Further qualitative studies that allow in-depth analyses may reveal underlying factors for this situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Keskin
- Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Basri Furkan Dagcioglu
- Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Ankara, Türkiye
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Klapprott F, Saleh EA, Kluge U. An ecosystemic view on refugee mental health care: on caring environments and their interaction. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daad141. [PMID: 37890153 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daad141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the burden of mental health problems among refugees, knowledge about mental health care for this group is limited. In this context, the comprehensive discussion is important because care is more than professional care, but takes place in everyday situations and between different groups of people. In this study, we look at expert views (based on profession and lived experience) on caring environments concerning refugees' mental health on different system levels. These levels include the individual level, family level, community level and the society. Additionally, we aimed to understand how these system levels interact. We conducted interviews with 11 psychotherapists from Germany and 12 participants who fled from Arabic-speaking countries to Germany. We analyzed transcripts following Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis. Interviewees shared ideas on how society in general (e.g. increase acceptance), professional actors (e.g. be sensitive about cultural differences), other refugees (e.g. exchange information), family/friends (e.g. provide emotional help) and refugees with mental health problems themselves (e.g. be open to involve others) could provide care. Participants provided examples of how system levels interacted, for example when legal norms made care among family members harder. The interactions between different system levels point to a multidisciplinary approach towards mental health care for refugees and call for building expert networks instead of viewing refugee mental health as a medical, psychiatric issue alone. To improve the mental health of refugees, different societal actors should keep in mind the interactions across different system levels and exchange their respective expert knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Klapprott
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of the Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Am Köllnischen Park 2, 10179 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ebtesam A Saleh
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of the Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrike Kluge
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of the Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute for Empirical Integration and Migration Research at the Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
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Psychouli P, Louta I, Christodoulou C. Development of the Refugees and Asylum Seekers Occupational Satisfaction (RASOS) Assessment Tool. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6826. [PMID: 37835096 PMCID: PMC10572712 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20196826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to develop an occupation-centered and client-centered assessment tool for refugees and asylum seekers. A preliminary tool outline was produced based on a literature review, while considering previous published tools' strengths and limitations. A qualitative study was undertaken via focus groups to improve on the tool's design and adequacy for its purpose, resulting in the creation of a pilot version of the tool. Convenience sampling included 8 Greek and Cypriot professional and student occupational therapists with experience in the field, 8 international expert occupational therapists, 4 laypeople, 4 humanitarian professionals, and 5 refugees and asylum seekers. Basic qualitative content and thematic analysis led to topics regarding tool modifications that concerned categorization, formation/structure, wording, administration, and assessment scale. Corresponding tool revisions ensued. This study led to the development of the pilot version of the Refugees and Asylum Seekers Occupational Satisfaction (RASOS), which can also be used to identify underlying personal and environmental factors that contribute to self-perceived low satisfaction. A future quantitative study is required to establish the psychometric properties of the tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavlina Psychouli
- Department of Health Sciences, European University Cyprus, 2404 Nicosia, Cyprus; (I.L.); (C.C.)
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Ugbe UMJ, Esu EB, Onwusaka OC, Bisongedam MM, Nji ELB, Efut JA, Ekpo OI, Okoi FU. Correlates of somatic symptom disorder among internally displaced persons in Ogoja displacement settlements, Nigeria: a cross-sectional study. Afr Health Sci 2023; 23:705-713. [PMID: 38357123 PMCID: PMC10862576 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v23i3.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Experiences of displacement have been associated with the prevalence of mental health disorders owing to certain factors. Objectives This study aimed to identify the correlates of Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) among internally displaced adults in Ogoja displacement settlements, Nigeria. Methods This was a cross-sectional study of 335 respondents. SSD was assessed using the SOM-SCL section of the Common Mental Disorder Questionnaire while a semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic and displacement-related factors. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and multivariable logistic regression. Result The prevalence of somatoform disorder was 59.1%. Factors found to be significant in each bivariate Chi-square analysis were modelled for the mental disorder. The multivariate analysis revealed that being married (AOR=2.80; p=0.020) prolonged displacement (AOR=3.29; p=0.003), discrimination (AOR=2.25; p=0.010), disease outbreak (AOR=1.92; p=0.030), loss of loved ones (AOR=1.34; p=0.028), overcrowded households (AOR=2.30; p=0.008), and fear of reprisals (AOR=2.05; p=0.026) were significantly associated with somatoform disorder. Conclusion The findings suggest that the high prevalence of the studied outcome is related to several stressors and events among Internally displaced persons. Evidence-based mental health support efforts by different bodies in creating and routinely arranging mental health clinical interventions for this population is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Joseph Ajah Efut
- Department of Public Health, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Ofem Irom Ekpo
- Department of Public Health, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Faith Ubi Okoi
- Department of Public Health, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
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Spaas C, Said-Metwaly S, Skovdal M, Primdahl NL, Jervelund SS, Hilden PK, Andersen AJ, Opaas M, Soye E, Watters C, Verelst A, Derluyn I, Colpin H, Haene LD. School-based Psychosocial Interventions' Effectiveness in Strengthening Refugee and Migrant Adolescents' Mental Health, Resilience, and Social Relations: A Four-country Cluster Randomized Study. PSYCHOSOCIAL INTERVENTION 2023; 32:177-189. [PMID: 37691715 PMCID: PMC10484026 DOI: 10.5093/pi2023a12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
School-based psychosocial interventions are increasingly put forward as a way to support young refugees' and migrants' well-being and mental health in resettlement. However, the evidence on these interventions' effectiveness remains scarce and scholars denounce particular gaps in the evidence to date, pointing to a lack of large-scale, controlled studies and studies including social outcome measures. This cluster randomized study aims to strengthen the evidence base on school-based psychosocial interventions for refugee and migrant youth by assessing the effect of two interventions, Classroom Drama and Welcome to School, on youth's mental health, resilience, and social relations in Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and the United Kingdom. Multilevel analyses were conducted separately for the two interventions (Classroom Drama, n = 307, ages 11-19; Welcome to School, n = 251, ages 11-23), using separate no-treatment control groups. Our analyses indicated a significant main, positive effect of Classroom Drama on perceived family support, and an effect on perceived support from friends that was moderated by country: in the United Kingdom, the intervention group reported an increase in perceived friend support, whereas the control group reported a decrease. Furthermore, baseline resilience moderated the effect of the Classroom Drama intervention on behavioral difficulties and well-being. No effects of Welcome to School on any of the outcome variables were found. Overall, this study provides novel, nuanced evidence on school-based psychosocial interventions for refugee and migrant adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Spaas
- KU Leuven UniversityBelgiumKU Leuven University, Belgium;
| | - Sameh Said-Metwaly
- KU Leuven UniversityBelgiumKU Leuven University, Belgium;
- Damanhour UniversityEgyptDamanhour University, Egypt;
| | - Morten Skovdal
- University of CopenhagenDenmarkUniversity of Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | | | | | - Per Kristian Hilden
- Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress StudiesOsloNorwayNorwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, NKVTS, Oslo, Norway;
| | - Arnfinn J. Andersen
- Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress StudiesOsloNorwayNorwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, NKVTS, Oslo, Norway;
| | - Marianne Opaas
- Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress StudiesOsloNorwayNorwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, NKVTS, Oslo, Norway;
| | - Emma Soye
- University of SussexSchool of Education and Social WorkUKSchool of Education and Social Work, University of Sussex, UK;
| | - Charles Watters
- University of SussexSchool of Education and Social WorkUKSchool of Education and Social Work, University of Sussex, UK;
| | - An Verelst
- Ghent UniversityBelgiumGhent University, Belgium
| | - Ilse Derluyn
- Ghent UniversityBelgiumGhent University, Belgium
| | - Hilde Colpin
- KU Leuven UniversityBelgiumKU Leuven University, Belgium;
| | - Lucia De Haene
- KU Leuven UniversityBelgiumKU Leuven University, Belgium;
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Herati H, Meyer SB. Mental health interventions for immigrant-refugee children and youth living in Canada: a scoping review and way forward. J Ment Health 2023; 32:276-289. [PMID: 32915669 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2020.1818710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic life events experienced by immigrant-refugee children and youth may deteriorate their mental health and well-being. It is a public health priority to develop appropriate mental health interventions for this population. AIMS To understand the psychosocial needs of immigrant-refugee children and youth resettled in Canada in the context of their school and community and to identify the characteristics of school-/community-based mental health programs for this group. METHOD Arksey and O'Malley's methodology for scoping reviews was used to select the studies based on criteria, extract data in a table, and synthesize main findings. RESULTS Fifteen peer-reviewed articles and five grey literature were identified. Key findings show that collaboration between schools, communities, and families play a crucial role in developing and implementing comprehensive mental health interventions for immigrant-refugee children/youth. Involving cultural brokers/interpreters and racially diverse school teachers/staff, is important to establish a trustful relationship between school authorities and marginalized population. CONCLUSIONS Further research is needed to examine the impact of collaborative mental healthcare among multiracial and newcomer families in Canada. Furthermore, there is a need to study the impact of adopting creative expression programs at schools/communities to improve emotional/behavioural problems and enhance school performance of these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda Herati
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Samantha B Meyer
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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To Screen or Not to Screen: Exploring and Addressing Effective Screening Processes for Trauma Among Forced Migrants. J Migr Health 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmh.2022.100148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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Ugbe UMJ, Esu EB, Efut JA, Bisongedam MM, Awa TM, Ekpo OI. Sociodemographic correlates and associated factors of depression and anxiety among internally displaced adults in Ogoja, Nigeria. Gen Psychiatr 2022; 35:e100749. [PMID: 35572773 PMCID: PMC9058780 DOI: 10.1136/gpsych-2022-100749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Displaced persons in Nigeria experience various difficulties at different stages of their displacement, including mental and physical problems. These experiences have been associated with different types of mental disorders. Aims This study sought to identify sociodemographic correlates and other factors associated with depression and anxiety among internally displaced adults in Ogoja, Cross River State, Nigeria. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using non-probability and probability sampling techniques. Internally displaced adults (n=335) were identified in Ogoja locations with a high prevalence of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Their mental health symptoms were assessed using the Common Mental Disorder Questionnaire, and a semistructured questionnaire was employed to collect data on sociodemographic and displacement-related characteristics. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, χ2 analysis and multivariable logistic regression. Results The prevalence of subtypes was 66.0% for anxiety disorder and 73.4% for depression. Factors found to be significant in each bivariate χ2 analysis were modelled for each outcome. The multivariate analysis revealed that prolonged displacement (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=3.64; p=0.048), reduced family size (AOR=0.28; p<0.001) and fears of reprisal attacks (AOR=4.19; p=0.004) were significantly associated with anxiety disorder. Male gender (AOR=2.09; p=0.015), prolonged displacement (AOR=3.55; p=0.020), reduced family size (AOR=0.55; p=0.049), financial strain (AOR=5.43; p=0.023) and loss of loved ones (AOR=1.92; p=0.040) were significantly associated with depression. Conclusions The implications of the findings underline the complex aetiology of these two mental problems and the need to cater to the well-being of those at risk who have been exposed to trauma-related events. Accessible and affordable mental health services should be provided for these persons while also considering a social welfare scheme that covers their health expenses. Moreover, socioeconomic conditions targeting IDPs in the Ogoja Local Government Area should be improved by conducting large-scale mapping to identify this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joseph Ajah Efut
- Public Health, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River, Nigeria
| | | | - Theresa Mark Awa
- Public Health, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River, Nigeria
| | - Ofem Irom Ekpo
- Public Health, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River, Nigeria
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Magwood O, Kassam A, Mavedatnia D, Mendonca O, Saad A, Hasan H, Madana M, Ranger D, Tan Y, Pottie K. Mental Health Screening Approaches for Resettling Refugees and Asylum Seekers: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063549. [PMID: 35329237 PMCID: PMC8953108 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Refugees and asylum seekers often face delayed mental health diagnoses, treatment, and care. COVID-19 has exacerbated these issues. Delays in diagnosis and care can reduce the impact of resettlement services and may lead to poor long-term outcomes. This scoping review aims to characterize studies that report on mental health screening for resettling refugees and asylum seekers pre-departure and post-arrival to a resettlement state. We systematically searched six bibliographic databases for articles published between 1995 and 2020 and conducted a grey literature search. We included publications that evaluated early mental health screening approaches for refugees of all ages. Our search identified 25,862 citations and 70 met the full eligibility criteria. We included 45 publications that described mental health screening programs, 25 screening tool validation studies, and we characterized 85 mental health screening tools. Two grey literature reports described pre-departure mental health screening. Among the included publications, three reported on two programs for women, 11 reported on programs for children and adolescents, and four reported on approaches for survivors of torture. Programs most frequently screened for overall mental health, PTSD, and depression. Important considerations that emerged from the literature include cultural and psychological safety to prevent re-traumatization and digital tools to offer more private and accessible self-assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Magwood
- C.T. Lamont Primary Care Research Center, Bruyère Research Institute, 85 Primrose Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1R 7G5, Canada; (O.M.); (O.M.); (A.S.); (H.H.); (D.R.); (Y.T.)
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, 25 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 7K4, Canada
| | - Azaad Kassam
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, 75 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada;
- Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre, 1365 Richmond Rd #2, Ottawa, ON K2B 6R7, Canada
- Ottawa Newcomer Health Centre, 291 Argyle, Ottawa, ON K2P 1B8, Canada
| | - Dorsa Mavedatnia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (D.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Oreen Mendonca
- C.T. Lamont Primary Care Research Center, Bruyère Research Institute, 85 Primrose Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1R 7G5, Canada; (O.M.); (O.M.); (A.S.); (H.H.); (D.R.); (Y.T.)
| | - Ammar Saad
- C.T. Lamont Primary Care Research Center, Bruyère Research Institute, 85 Primrose Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1R 7G5, Canada; (O.M.); (O.M.); (A.S.); (H.H.); (D.R.); (Y.T.)
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z3, Canada
- Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 5B2, Canada
| | - Hafsa Hasan
- C.T. Lamont Primary Care Research Center, Bruyère Research Institute, 85 Primrose Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1R 7G5, Canada; (O.M.); (O.M.); (A.S.); (H.H.); (D.R.); (Y.T.)
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6, Canada
| | - Maria Madana
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; (D.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Dominique Ranger
- C.T. Lamont Primary Care Research Center, Bruyère Research Institute, 85 Primrose Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1R 7G5, Canada; (O.M.); (O.M.); (A.S.); (H.H.); (D.R.); (Y.T.)
| | - Yvonne Tan
- C.T. Lamont Primary Care Research Center, Bruyère Research Institute, 85 Primrose Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1R 7G5, Canada; (O.M.); (O.M.); (A.S.); (H.H.); (D.R.); (Y.T.)
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Queen’s University, 99 University Ave, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Kevin Pottie
- C.T. Lamont Primary Care Research Center, Bruyère Research Institute, 85 Primrose Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1R 7G5, Canada; (O.M.); (O.M.); (A.S.); (H.H.); (D.R.); (Y.T.)
- Department of Family Medicine, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Sudheer N, Banerjee D. The Rohingya refugees: a conceptual framework of their psychosocial adversities, cultural idioms of distress and social suffering. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2021; 8:e46. [PMID: 35003755 PMCID: PMC8715339 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2021.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rohingya refugees, a group of religious and ethnic minorities, primarily reside in the South Asian nations. With decades of displacement, forced migration, limited freedom of movement, violence and oppression, they have been termed by the United Nations (UN) as the 'most persecuted minority group' in world history. Literature shows an increased prevalence of psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, insomnia, etc., in this population. However, beyond 'medicalisation', the psychosocial challenges of the Rohingyas need to be understood through the lens of 'social suffering', which results from a complex interplay of multiple social, political, environmental and geographical factors. Lack of essential living amenities, poverty, unemployment, overcrowding, compromised social identity, and persistent traumatic stressors lead to inequality, restricted healthcare access, human rights deprivation and social injustice in this group. Even though the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) has taken a renewed interest in Rohingya re-establishment with well-researched standards of care, there are several pragmatic challenges in their implementation and inclusion in policies. This paper reviews these multi-dimensional psychosocial challenges of the Rohingyas by synthesising various intersecting conceptual models including minority stress, health-stigma-discrimination framework, refugee ecological model and capability approach. Furthermore, it highlights multidisciplinary interventions to mitigate these adversities, improve their living situation and eventually foster healing via means which are culturally relevant and contextually appropriate. These interventions need to involve various stakeholders from a human rights and dignity based lens, including the voices of the Rohingyas and supported by more research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nivedita Sudheer
- Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Debanjan Banerjee
- Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
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Saberi S, Wachtler C, Lau P. Are we on the same page? Mental health literacy and access to care: a qualitative study in young Hazara refugees in Melbourne. Aust J Prim Health 2021; 27:450-455. [PMID: 34802509 DOI: 10.1071/py21017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hazaras, mostly aged <30 years, constituted the greatest number of people resettled under Australia's migration resettlement between 2009 and 2013. This group is at high risk of mental health issues due to pre- and post-forced migration experiences. This study explored the understanding of mental health and barriers to accessing primary mental health care in young Hazara refugees in Melbourne. Seventeen Hazaras aged 18-30 years were recruited for two sex-segregated focus groups; two individual semistructured interviews were also conducted (with one male and one female participant). Discussions were audiotaped, transcribed and analysed thematically. Participants had varied perspectives on mental health issues stemming from historical and current beliefs. Lack of knowledge and concerns over confidentiality within Hazaras were considered major barriers to seeking help. Community education through existing community groups and through the women could potentially help overcome barriers to mental health access by young Hazaras.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahema Saberi
- Deparment of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Corresponding author.
| | - Caroline Wachtler
- Karolinska Institutet Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences, and Society, Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Sweden
| | - Phyllis Lau
- Deparment of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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14
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Hawkes C, Norris K, Joyce J, Paton D. A qualitative investigation of mental health in women of refugee background resettled in Tasmania, Australia. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1877. [PMID: 34663290 PMCID: PMC8525024 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11934-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Women of Refugee Background (WoRB) are a highly vulnerable population with complex going mental health needs following resettlement. In Australia, there has been a substantial increase in WoRB being resettled in rural and regional locations. Despite this, no research to date has specifically focused on factors contributing to mental distress in WoRB in regional resettlement locations. The current study aimed to address this gap in literature. Methods 21 semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with WoRB and service providers in regional locations of Tasmania, Australia. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analysed utilising Braun and Clarke (Qual Res Psychol 3(2):77–101, 2006) framework for conducting thematic analysis. Results Thematic analysis revealed that WoRB conceptualised mental health as a pathogenic entity, which significantly influenced their mental health help-seeking behaviours. The findings also highlighted how resettlement to a rural and regional location of Australia may exacerbate many of the factors which contribute to ongoing mental distress in WoRB. Conclusions The findings of the current study build upon existing research which indicates the adverse impacts post-migrations stressors can have on the mental health of individuals of refugee background. Furthermore, this study suggests that the current services and supports available to WoRB resettled in regional locations of Australia are inadequate, and under-resources. These findings are discussed in regard to practical and policy implications which should be addressed to better support the mental health of WoRB resettled in rural and regional locations of Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Hawkes
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, Darwin, NT, 0811, Australia.
| | - Kimberley Norris
- School of Medicine (Psychology), University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, 7001, Australia
| | - Janine Joyce
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, Darwin, NT, 0811, Australia
| | - Douglas Paton
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina, Darwin, NT, 0811, Australia
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15
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Lin SL, Kobayashi K, Tong H, Davison KM, Arora SRA, Fuller-Thomson E. Close Relations Matter: The Association Between Depression and Refugee Status in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA). J Immigr Minor Health 2021; 22:946-956. [PMID: 31974926 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-020-00980-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the prevalence and social determinants of depression among refugee and non-refugee adults aged 45-85 in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. Bivariate analyses and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were conducted. The prevalence of depression was higher in a sample of 272 refugees (22.1%) and 5059 non-refugee immigrants (16.6%), compared to 24,339 native-born Canadians (15.2%). The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of depression for refugees were not attenuated when controlling factors such as, (1) socioeconomic status, (2) health conditions and behaviours, (3) social isolation and online social networking (aORs range from 1.61 to 1.70, p's < 0.05). However, when social support representing close personal relationships was included, the odds of depression for refugees were reduced to non-significance (aOR = 1.30, 95% CI 0.97-1.74, p = 0.08). Refugees' excess vulnerability to depression is mainly attributable to lower levels of affectionate social support. Targeted interventions in nurturing supportive interpersonal relationships for refugees are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Lamson Lin
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Institute for Life Course & Aging, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada.
| | - Karen Kobayashi
- Faculty of Social Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Hongmei Tong
- Faculty of Health and Community Studies, MacEwan University, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Karen M Davison
- Faculty of Science and Horticulture (Health Science), Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Surrey, Canada.,Faculty of Social Science, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, USA
| | - Simran R A Arora
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Institute for Life Course & Aging, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Esme Fuller-Thomson
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Institute for Life Course & Aging, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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16
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Wang X, Li X, Qi M, Hu X, Zhu H, Shi X. Incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder in survivors of traumatic fracture: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2021; 27:902-916. [PMID: 34313497 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2021.1957953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prevalent in traumatic events. It is a great hazard of physical and mental health due to their severity and frequency. Traumatic fractures are one of the major causes of PTSD. The incidence of traumatic fractures has been high in recent years, which will directly or indirectly result in PTSD. Our target is to estimate the pooled incidence of PTSD in fracture patients after traumatic events and to explore possible influencing factors by a meta-analysis.The systematic searches in the electronic bibliographic databases of Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), Wangfang , and Veipu Databases. Not only were heterogeneity and 95% confidence interval (CI) used for comprehensive assessing each pooled, but also was the P value. Subgroup analyses for some sample characteristics were calculated the pooled incidence of PTSD among patients suffered from fractures.In total, 2619 patients suffered from fracture, and were assessed PTSD in the 12 eligible studies. The heterogeneity was not low (I2 = 97.6%, P < 0.001) in the 12 eligible studies. The pooled incidence of PTSD in fracture patients was 29% (95% CI, 20% to 39%) using random-effects model. Subgroup analyses revealed that the pooled incidence of PTSD among patients after traumatic fracture was statistically significant differences according to the study design, the study location, tools to assess the symptoms of PTSD, the mean age and injury mechanism (all P < 0.001). Fracture sites, injury mechanism and pain were the main influencing factors of PTSD in fracture patients.Our results highlight the phenomenon that high incidence of PTSD in patients after fracture and they should be followed up regularly and be provided effective interventions. Future efforts to improve and control the main influencing factors of PTSD for this population still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xiahong Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Miao Qi
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xiuli Hu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Huiping Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Center for Injury Research and Policy & Center for Pediatric Trauma Research, the Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, the Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, USA
| | - Xiuquan Shi
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China.,Center for Injury Research and Policy & Center for Pediatric Trauma Research, the Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, the Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, USA
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17
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Kronick R, Jarvis GE, Kirmayer LJ. Refugee mental health and human rights: A challenge for global mental health. Transcult Psychiatry 2021; 58:147-156. [PMID: 33784907 DOI: 10.1177/13634615211002690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article introduces a thematic issue of Transcultural Psychiatry that presents recent work that deepens our understanding of the refugee experience-from the forces of displacement, through the trajectory of migration, to the challenges of resettlement. Mental health research on refugees and asylum seekers has burgeoned over the past two decades with epidemiological studies, accounts of the lived experience, new conceptual frameworks, and advances in understanding of effective treatment and intervention. However, there are substantial gaps in available research, and important ethical and methodological challenges. These include: the need to adopt decolonizing, participatory methods that amplify refugee voices; the further development of frameworks for studying the broad impacts of forced migration that go beyond posttraumatic stress disorder; and more translational research informed by longitudinal studies of the course of refugee adaptation. Keeping a human rights advocacy perspective front and center will allow researchers to work in collaborative ways with both refugee communities and receiving societies to develop innovative mental health policy and practice to meet the urgent need for a global response to the challenge of forced migration, which is likely to grow dramatically in the coming years as a result of the impacts of climate change.
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18
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Abstract
Circumstances forcing individuals and families to flee set the stage for disruptions in mental health and forge resilience. Individual characteristics and conditions premigration, perimigration, and postmigration influence health, mental health, care-seeking behavior, and stages of well-being and successful resettlement. Primary care providers have strategies to promote mental well-being, including focusing on resilience and social determinants of health. Integrated or collaborative care models are ideal for delivering optimum care for refugee and immigrant communities. Connecting primary and behavioral care promotes a team approach; provides comprehensive, whole-person care; and relies on participation of patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim S Griswold
- Department of Family Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY, USA.
| | - Dianne M Loomis
- Emeritus, University at Buffalo, School of Nursing, Buffalo, NY, USA
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19
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Dalexis RD, Cénat JM. Asylum seekers working in Quebec (Canada) during the COVID-19 pandemic: Risk of deportation, and threats to physical and mental health. Psychiatry Res 2020; 292:113299. [PMID: 32702554 PMCID: PMC7362783 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
• Asylum seekers experienced childhood adversity, domestic violence, extreme poverty and precariousness, armed violence, rape, and detention. • In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Quebec (Canada), asylum seekers are on the frontlines, risking their lives to save the lives of others. • In addition to the anxiety associated with COVID-19, these asylum seekers are also concerned about being deported. • Regulation measures should be taken to prevent long-term mental health problems related to anxieties and worries generated by both COVID-19 and asylum status, particularly the fear of deportation.
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20
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Sengoelge M, Solberg Ø, Nissen A, Saboonchi F. Exploring Social and Financial Hardship, Mental Health Problems and the Role of Social Support in Asylum Seekers Using Structural Equation Modelling. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E6948. [PMID: 32977521 PMCID: PMC7579644 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17196948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Asylum seekers are exposed to a range of social and financial difficulties suggested to adversely impact mental health. Uprooted social networks and living conditions during the asylum seeking process potentially predispose this population to low access to social support. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between social and financial hardship and mental health problems, and assess the potential mediating role of social support among asylum seekers. Cross sectional survey data from a cohort of asylum seekers in Sweden (N = 455) were subjected to structural equation modelling for examining hypothesized pathways between social and financial hardship, common mental health problems (CMHPs) and social support. Fit indices showed adequate to excellent fit of the examined models with CMHPs as the outcome (all CFI ≥ 0.951, RMSEA < 0.05, SRMR < 0.056). CMHPs were positively regressed on social and financial hardship (B = 0.786, S = 0.102, p < 0.001) and negatively regressed on social support (B = -0.103, SE = 0.032, p = 0.001). Social support mediated the association between social and financial hardship and CMHPs (effect estimate = 0.075, 95% CI = 0.032-0.136). The results point to the importance of social and living conditions of asylum seekers and indicate that social support is both socially patterned and may act as a mitigating resource to inform interventions and policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Sengoelge
- Department of Health Sciences, Red Cross University College, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (Ø.S.); (A.N.); (F.S.)
| | - Øivind Solberg
- Department of Health Sciences, Red Cross University College, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (Ø.S.); (A.N.); (F.S.)
- Division for Implementation and Treatment Research, Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, 0484 Oslo, Norway
| | - Alexander Nissen
- Department of Health Sciences, Red Cross University College, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (Ø.S.); (A.N.); (F.S.)
- Division for Implementation and Treatment Research, Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, 0484 Oslo, Norway
| | - Fredrik Saboonchi
- Department of Health Sciences, Red Cross University College, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (Ø.S.); (A.N.); (F.S.)
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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21
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Solberg Ø, Vaez M, Johnson-Singh CM, Saboonchi F. Asylum-seekers' psychosocial situation: A diathesis for post-migratory stress and mental health disorders? J Psychosom Res 2020; 130:109914. [PMID: 31935528 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2019.109914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE While flight experiences of refugees and asylum-seekers might differ profoundly, previous research has, to a large degree, not differentiated between these forcibly displaced groups. Furthermore, research has mainly focused on post-migratory stress measured after resettlement. The aim of this study was therefore to chart mental health disorders and the associations between mental health and early post-migratory stress among asylum-seekers. METHOD Using a cross sectional survey design, data collection was conducted from 2016 to 2018, in three large asylum-seekers' housing facilities located in Sweden. RESULTS In total 455 asylum-seekers from Afghanistan, Eritrea, Iraq, Somalia and Syria responded to the questionnaire. The most prevalent type of mental health disorder was depression (67.9%) followed by posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (60.7%), and anxiety (59.3%). More men than women reported mental health disorders particularly with regard to anxiety and PTSD, and respondents with the lowest level of education (≤9 years) reported the highest levels of mental health problems. Associations between mental health disorders and post-migratory stress revealed that three post-migratory stressors were consistently the strongest indicators of mental health disorders. CONCLUSIONS Compared to previous research within populations of refugees who have received formal refugee status or resident permits, the prevalences of mental health disorders reported in the present study were substantially larger and the associations between post-migratory stressors and mental health disorders appears to be substantially stronger for asylum-seekers. This might suggest that the asylum-seekers' psychosocial situation becomes a diathesis or predisposition that interacts with early post-migratory stressors, in turn having detrimental effects on mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Øivind Solberg
- Division for Implementation and Treatment Research, Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo, Norway; Department of Health Science, Swedish Red Cross University College, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Marjan Vaez
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Health Science, Swedish Red Cross University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Charisse M Johnson-Singh
- Epidemiology and Public Health Intervention Research Group (EPHIR), Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Health Science, Swedish Red Cross University College, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Saboonchi
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Health Science, Swedish Red Cross University College, Stockholm, Sweden
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22
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Cénat JM, Charles CH, Kebedom P. Multiple Traumas, Health Problems and Resilience among Haitian Asylum Seekers in Canada’s 2017 Migration Crisis: Psychopathology of Crossing. JOURNAL OF LOSS & TRAUMA 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2019.1703610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlo Handy Charles
- Department of Sociology, McMaster University, Hamilton for McMaster University, Canada
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23
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Bayne M, Sokoloff L, Rinehart R, Epie A, Hirt L, Katz C. Assessing the efficacy and experience of in-person versus telephonic psychiatric evaluations for asylum seekers in the U.S. Psychiatry Res 2019; 282:112612. [PMID: 31630041 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.112612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric evaluations of asylum seekers in the U.S. play an important role in asylum cases; however, there are significant barriers to assessing asylum seekers' psychological trauma. Telephonic psychiatric evaluations provide an opportunity to access important resources to bolster their case. In this retrospective study, we considered the efficacy of telephonic psychiatric evaluations and assessed their potential as a solution to meet the needs of asylum seekers. Ten affidavits produced from telephonic evaluations were compared to twenty produced from in-person evaluations using a standardized scoring rubric. Providers who conducted telephonic evaluations also completed a structured interview and a qualitative assessment of themes was conducted. Overall, there was a small, but non-significant difference in overall score. The presence of descriptions of cognitive complaints, appearance, motor activity and use of checklists were, however, all significantly lower in telephonic compared to in-person affidavits. Providers agreed that despite limitations, the ability to diagnose and advocate for asylum seekers is equivalent regardless of format. This study identifies that telephonic psychiatric evaluations produce comparable results to in-person evaluations with the benefit of reaching a hard to reach population. Evaluators, lawyers, and judges should consider these results in weighing the risk-benefits of a telephonic evaluation of an asylum seeker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Bayne
- Graduate Program of Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 17 E. 102nd Street, New York, NY, 10029, United States.
| | - Lara Sokoloff
- Department of Medical Education, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Rebecca Rinehart
- Department of Medical Education, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Axel Epie
- Department of Medical Education, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Leeza Hirt
- Department of Medical Education, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Craig Katz
- Department of Medical Education, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, United States,; Department of Health System Design & Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, United States.
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24
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Rousseau C, Frounfelker RL. Mental health needs and services for migrants: an overview for primary care providers. J Travel Med 2019; 26:5251755. [PMID: 30561687 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/tay150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this article is to present an overview of the burden, spectrum of diseases and risk factors for mental illness among subgroups of migrants, namely, immigrants, refugees and individuals with precarious legal status. This expert review summarises some of the implications for primary care services in migrant receiving countries in the global North. METHODS A broad literature review was conducted on the epidemiology of mental health disorders in migrants and the available evidence on mental health services for this population focusing on key issues for primary care practitioners in high-income countries. RESULTS Although most migrants are resilient, migration is associated with an over-representation of mental disorder in specific subpopulations. There is a general consensus that stress-related disorders are more prevalent among refugee populations of all ages compared to the general population. Relative to refugees, migrants with precarious legal status may be at even higher risk of depression and anxiety disorders. Persistence and severity of psychiatric disorders among migrant populations can be attributed to a combination of factors including severity of trauma exposures during the migration process. Exposure to stressors after resettlement, such as poverty and limited social support, also impacts mental illness. Services for migrants are affected by restricted accessibility and should address cultural and linguistic barriers to and issues in the larger social environment that impact psychosocial functioning. CONCLUSION There is substantial burden of mental illness among some migrant populations. Primary care providers seeking to assist individuals need to be cognizant of language barriers to and challenges of working with interpreters as well as sensitive to cultural and social contexts within the diagnosis and service delivery process. In addition, best practices in screening migrants and providing intervention services for mental disorders need to be sensitive to where individuals and families are in the resettlement trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Rousseau
- McGill University-Division de psychiatrie sociale et culturelle, CLSC Parc Extension 7085 Hutchison, Local 204.2, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rochelle L Frounfelker
- McGill University-Division de psychiatrie sociale et culturelle, CLSC Parc Extension 7085 Hutchison, Local 204.2, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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25
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van Heemstra HE, Scholte WF, Haagen JFG, Boelen PA. 7ROSES, a transdiagnostic intervention for promoting self-efficacy in traumatized refugees: a first quantitative evaluation. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2019; 10:1673062. [PMID: 31681464 PMCID: PMC6807946 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2019.1673062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Due to traumatic experiences and highly prevalent post-migration stressors, refugees are vulnerable for developing psychopathology. To date, research has mainly evaluated trauma-focused therapies, targeting post traumatic stresss symptoms. Treatments targeting post-migration stressors are relatively understudied. The present cohort study evaluated the potential effectiveness of 7ROSES, a transdiagnostic intervention that aims to increase self-efficacy among treatment-seeking refugees in dealing with post-migration stressors. Because it can be applied by non-specialist health care workers, it can be disseminated on a large scale, thereby increasing options for psychosocial support for refugees. Method: Forty-nine refugees (65% male, average age: 36.02 years, SD = 8.52) with psychopathology were included. Before and after participation in 7ROSES, self-efficacy was measured using the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and general psychopathology using the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Results: Completers analysis yielded a significant increase in GSES scores (Z = -2.16, p = .03) and significant decrease in BSI scores (Z = -2.05, p = .04) with medium-small effects (both r = -.28). Intent-to-treat analysis, using predictive mean matching imputation, yielded significant results for the GSES (p = .012) but not for the BSI (p = .14) with small effects (GSES r = .14, BSI r = .12). Reliable change indices established negative change in 3%, no change in 70%, and positive change in 27% based on the GSES; percentages were 11.5%, 65.5%, and 23%, respectively, based on the BSI. Conclusion: Findings provide preliminary evidence that 7ROSES could improve self-efficacy and general mental health in refugees with psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriette E van Heemstra
- ARQ Centrum'45, Diemen, Diemen, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Utrecht University, Diemen, Netherlands.,department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - W F Scholte
- ARQ Centrum'45, Diemen, Diemen, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Utrecht University, Diemen, Netherlands.,Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F G Haagen
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Utrecht University, Diemen, Netherlands.,Impact, Dutch Knowledge and Advice Center for Psychosocial Care and Safety Concerning Critical Incidents, Diemen, Netherlands
| | - P A Boelen
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Utrecht University, Diemen, Netherlands.,department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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26
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Dai W, Liu A, Kaminga AC, Deng J, Lai Z, Wen SW. Prevalence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder among Children and Adolescents following Road Traffic Accidents: A Meta-Analysis. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2018; 63:798-808. [PMID: 30081648 PMCID: PMC6309043 DOI: 10.1177/0706743718792194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Children and adolescents are among the most vulnerable road users, and road traffic accidents (RTAs) can lead to not only physical injuries but also adverse psychological outcomes, particularly posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, estimates of the prevalence of PTSD among children and adolescents following RTAs varied considerably across studies. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of PTSD among this population. METHODS A systematic search for literature was performed in the electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Embase. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran's chi-square test and quantified by the I2 value. Meta-regression analyses were carried out to identify the effects of some potential moderators on the overall heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were performed to estimate the pooled prevalence of PTSD according to some sample characteristics. RESULTS Eleven eligible studies with a total of 1532 children and adolescents who were involved in RTAs were included. The overall heterogeneity (I2 = 89.7, P < 0.001) was high across the eligible studies, and the pooled prevalence of PTSD was 19.95% (95% confidence interval, 13.63% to 27.09%) by a random-effects model. No significant moderators of the overall heterogeneity were identified using meta-regression analyses. Subgroup analyses showed that the pooled prevalence of PTSD differed significantly according to the study location and gender (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS One-fifth of children and adolescents developed PTSD in the aftermath of RTAs, indicating the need for regular assessment of PTSD and timely and effective psychological interventions among this population. Furthermore, more population-based studies with a large sample size are warranted. The protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (No. CRD42018087941).
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Dai
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, OMNI Research Group, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,School of Epidemiology, Public Health, and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aizhong Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Atipatsa C Kaminga
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Department of Mathematics, Mzuzu University, Mzuzu, Malawi
| | - Jing Deng
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhiwei Lai
- Immunization Programme Department, Hunan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shi Wu Wen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, OMNI Research Group, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,School of Epidemiology, Public Health, and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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