Refugees, migrants face mental health crisis: WHO report

GENEVA (AA) : The most recent report on the mental health of refugees and migrants emphasized the latest global evidence on factors influencing the mental health of refugees and migrants and their access to care. The report was released on World Mental Health Day on Tuesday.

The fifth report of the Global Evidence Review on Health and Migration (GEHM) noted that approximately one in every eight people worldwide has a mental health condition.

Refugees and migrants are particularly vulnerable as they can be exposed to various stress factors and challenges, which affect their mental health and well-being both during their perilous journeys and upon arrival, said the report.

“Good mental health and well-being is a right for all, including for refugees and migrants,” said Dr. Santino Severoni, who heads the WHO’s Department of Health and Migration.

Common mental disorders such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more prevalent among migrants and refugees than among host populations, he said.

Vulnerability of women, girls

The report highlights that girls and women on the move have a higher risk of depression and anxiety, aiming to support and strengthen healthcare systems’ responses to the mental health needs of refugees and migrants, said Severoni.

“This is so that they can receive quality mental health care and support in ways they find accessible, acceptable and affordable,” he said.

The report examines risk factors and barriers that refugee and migrant groups experience, outlining ways to address them and improve their access to mental health care.

According to the report, evidence shows that being part of a community with a shared background and attending school are associated with a lower rate of mental disorders.

And on basic needs and security, it observes that an insecure legal status can contribute to poor mental health.

Stigma

The report highlights stigma because racism and discrimination are consistently associated with adverse mental health outcomes.

According to the WHO report on adversity and trauma, extended detention, for example, is associated with higher rates of depression and PTSD.

Regarding access to services, refugees and migrants rarely prioritize their mental health because they are unaware of services that might be available for free or do not accept health care due to language barriers and concerns around confidentiality.

“Refugees and migrants face many unique stressors and challenges,” said Devora Kestel, WHO’s director for Mental Health and Substance Use.

“This report sets out the urgent need for robust policies and legislation, rooted within stronger health systems, to meet the mental health care needs of refugees and migrants.”