Refugee mental health: Culturally relevant considerations

Abstract

In recent years, multiple global crises have contributed to increasing human displacement. Currently, there are approximately 84 million displaced people around the world. Many suffer from mental health problems. However, the mental health service delivery system is not fully prepared to meet the complex needs of refugees. Refugees experience multiple barriers, both individual and systemic, to accessing and engaging in mental health treatment. The following article provides an overview of some of the challenges faced by refugees worldwide and avenues forward. The authors also examine contextual factors that impact refugee resettlement and discuss barriers to culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and ethical care. Finally, the authors review advocacy efforts and discuss future directions to improve refugee mental health care delivery.

Keywords: Cultural responsiveness; Refugee mental health; Systemic barriers; Trauma-informed care.