WHO: Mental Health of Refugees and Migrants
January 5th, 2019Being a refugee or a migrant does not, in itself, make individuals significantly more vulnerable to mental disorders, but refugees and migrants can be exposed to various stress factors that influence their mental well-being.
Refugees and migrants have often faced war, persecution and hardship in their country of origin. Many will have experienced displacement and difficulties in transit countries and embarked on dangerous travels. Lack of information, uncertainty about immigration status, potential hostility, changing policies, and undignified and protracted detention all contribute to additional stress.
Furthermore, forced migration requires multiple adaptations in short periods of time, making them more vulnerable to abuse and neglect. Pre-existing social and mental health problems can thus be exacerbated.
Clinical Management of Mental, Neurological and Substance Use Conditions in Humanitarian Emergencies