ReliefWeb

Mental health and psychosocial support matter in refugee settings

Experiences of displacement due to armed conflict, persecution, or disasters put significant psychological and social stress on individuals, families and communities. The ways in which refugees experience and respond to loss, pain, disruption and violence vary significantly and may in various ways affect their mental health and psychosocial wellbeing or increase their vulnerability to develop mental health problems. Often, reactions to disruptive situations are normal and can be overcome with time. Many refugees will be able to cope with these difficult experiences, and even build resilience, if a supportive family and community environment is available.

In settings of mass displacement normal and traditional community structures, such as extended family systems and informal community networks, which often regulate community well-being, may have broken down. This may lead to social and psychological problems or exacerbate existing problems, but in the emergency response, opportunities for new mechanisms with novel leadership structures may also arise, which may or may not be representative of all members of the community (UNHCR, 2007a).
Some refugees may develop negative coping mechanisms that may be reinforced while they struggle to meet basic needs. Some will newly develop mental disorders while others with pre-existing mental disorders may experience exacerbation of their symptoms. The usual systems for providing mental health care may be negatively affected, leaving people with mental disorders without adequate treatment.