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Reich H, Hegerl U, Rosenthal A, Allenhof C. Arabic-language digital interventions for depression in German routine health care are acceptable, but intervention adoption remains a challenge. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12097. [PMID: 38866810 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62196-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Migrants face many barriers to mental health care, such as different cultural concepts of distress, unfamiliar pathways to care, and language. Digital mental health interventions are effective and scalable in multi-language versions. However, their implementation into routine care is in its infancy. Here, we report on the Arabic- and German-language implementation of two digital interventions in Germany: The iFightDepression® website, providing information about depression to the public, and the iFightDepression® tool, offering guided self-management for depression. Our main goal is to gain empirical knowledge about the success of their implementation and provide evidence-based recommendations for improvement. Data for the current analyses stem from convenience samples, utilizing anonymized user logs of the iFightDepression® website and 15.307 user accounts in the iFightDepression® tool. We found that the acceptability (time on page, usage behavior) of both digital interventions was comparable between the two user groups. The website pervasiveness of the target populations was nine times lower among Arab migrants in Germany than Germans (89 vs. 834 unique page views/ 100,000 inhabitants), but the increase in views was superior and sustained over three years. The adoption of the tool was lower among Arabic than German users (conversion rate from invitation to completed registration: 30.8% vs. 59.0%, p < 0.001) and appropriateness was challenged as Arabic users reported higher depression severities upon first registration (p = 0.027). Our results show that the uptake of digital interventions for migrants requires facilitation and further tailoring to the needs of the target group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Reich
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy, Depression Research Centre of the German Depression Foundation, University Hospital, Goethe University, Heinrich-Hoffmann-Str. 10, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- German Depression Foundation, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Ulrich Hegerl
- German Depression Foundation, Leipzig, Germany
- Johann Christian Senckenberg Distinguished Professorship, Department for Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- European Alliance Against Depression e.V., Leipzig, Germany
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Jahan R, Amin R, Arafat SMY. Practical challenges for mental health services among Rohingya refugee in Bangladesh. Asian J Psychiatr 2024; 97:104069. [PMID: 38788321 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Rohingya Muslims have been forcefully displaced from their mother land, Rakhaine State, Myanmar to Bangladesh, a country with about 170 million population with a treatment gap of more than 90% for standard mental health care. Due to the experienced trauma and displacement, high prevalence of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic tress disorders has been identified among Rohingya refugees in addition to the enduring mental health burden of Bangladesh. Very little has been known regarding the practical challenges of mental health services among Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. In this commentary, we aimed to highlight the practical challenges for mental health services in Rohingya camps in Bangladesh along with our speculative ways forward based on available evidence, work experience, and informal communications. We highlighted the available mental health services, several major challenges including awareness, perception and belief towards mental health, language and cultural barriers, dearth of skilled service providers, inadequate services for severe mental illness, dearth of mental health services for children, inadequate provision of supervision and 'Care for Caregivers' program, and privacy and confidentiality of the clients. Although significant improvements have been made in the mental health field in the emergency crisis sector in Cox's Bazar over the past years, concentrated efforts are urgently required to actualize proposed solutions in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubina Jahan
- Head of Clinical Services, Mental Health Program, SAJIDA Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
| | - Rizwana Amin
- Department of Psychology, Effat University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - S M Yasir Arafat
- Department of Psychiatry, Bangladesh Specialized Hospital, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; Senior Research Fellow, Biomedical Research Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
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Bertolini F, Robertson L, Bisson JI, Meader N, Churchill R, Ostuzzi G, Stein DJ, Williams T, Barbui C. Early pharmacological interventions for prevention of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals experiencing acute traumatic stress symptoms. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 5:CD013613. [PMID: 38767196 PMCID: PMC11103774 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013613.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute traumatic stress symptoms may develop in people who have been exposed to a traumatic event. Although they are usually self-limiting in time, some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a severe and debilitating condition. Pharmacological interventions have been proposed for acute symptoms to act as an indicated prevention measure for PTSD development. As many individuals will spontaneously remit, these interventions should balance efficacy and tolerability. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and acceptability of early pharmacological interventions for prevention of PTSD in adults experiencing acute traumatic stress symptoms. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Controlled Trial Register (CCMDCTR), CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and two other databases. We checked the reference lists of all included studies and relevant systematic reviews. The search was last updated on 23 January 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials on adults exposed to any kind of traumatic event and presenting acute traumatic stress symptoms, without restriction on their severity. We considered comparisons of any medication with placebo, or with another medication. We excluded trials that investigated medications as an augmentation to psychotherapy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures. Using a random-effects model, we analysed dichotomous data as risk ratios (RR) and calculated the number needed to treat for an additional beneficial/harmful outcome (NNTB/NNTH). We analysed continuous data as mean differences (MD) or standardised mean differences (SMD). Our primary outcomes were PTSD severity and dropouts due to adverse events. Secondary outcomes included PTSD rate, functional disability and quality of life. MAIN RESULTS We included eight studies that considered four interventions (escitalopram, hydrocortisone, intranasal oxytocin, temazepam) and involved a total of 779 participants. The largest trial contributed 353 participants and the next largest, 120 and 118 participants respectively. The trials enrolled participants admitted to trauma centres or emergency departments. The risk of bias in the included studies was generally low except for attrition rate, which we rated as high-risk. We could meta-analyse data for two comparisons: escitalopram versus placebo (but limited to secondary outcomes) and hydrocortisone versus placebo. One study compared escitalopram to placebo at our primary time point of three months after the traumatic event. There was inconclusive evidence of any difference in terms of PTSD severity (mean difference (MD) on the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS, score range 0 to 136) -11.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) -24.56 to 1.86; 1 study, 23 participants; very low-certainty evidence), dropouts due to adverse events (no participant left the study early due to adverse events; 1 study, 31 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and PTSD rates (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.03 to 13.08; NNTB 37, 95% CI NNTB 15 to NNTH 1; 1 study, 23 participants; very low-certainty evidence). The study did not assess functional disability or quality of life. Three studies compared hydrocortisone to placebo at our primary time point of three months after the traumatic event. We found inconclusive evidence on whether hydrocortisone was more effective in reducing the severity of PTSD symptoms compared to placebo (MD on CAPS -7.53, 95% CI -25.20 to 10.13; I2 = 85%; 3 studies, 136 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and whether it reduced the risk of developing PTSD (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.09 to 2.38; NNTB 14, 95% CI NNTB 8 to NNTH 5; I2 = 36%; 3 studies, 136 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Evidence on the risk of dropping out due to adverse events is inconclusive (RR 3.19, 95% CI 0.13 to 75.43; 2 studies, 182 participants; low-certainty evidence) and it is unclear whether hydrocortisone might improve quality of life (MD on the SF-36 (score range 0 to 136, higher is better) 19.70, 95% CI -1.10 to 40.50; 1 study, 43 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No study assessed functional disability. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This review provides uncertain evidence regarding the use of escitalopram, hydrocortisone, intranasal oxytocin and temazepam for people with acute stress symptoms. It is therefore unclear whether these pharmacological interventions exert a positive or negative effect in this population. It is important to note that acute traumatic stress symptoms are often limited in time, and that the lack of data prevents the careful assessment of expected benefits against side effects that is therefore required. To yield stronger conclusions regarding both positive and negative outcomes, larger sample sizes are required. A common operational framework of criteria for inclusion and baseline assessment might help in better understanding who, if anyone, benefits from an intervention. As symptom severity alone does not provide the full picture of the impact of exposure to trauma, assessment of quality of life and functional impairment would provide a more comprehensive picture of the effects of the interventions. The assessment and reporting of side effects may facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of tolerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Bertolini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lindsay Robertson
- Cochrane Common Mental Disorders, University of York, York, UK
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Jonathan I Bisson
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Nicholas Meader
- Cochrane Common Mental Disorders, University of York, York, UK
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Rachel Churchill
- Cochrane Common Mental Disorders, University of York, York, UK
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Giovanni Ostuzzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Dan J Stein
- SAMRC Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Dept of Psychiatry & Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Taryn Williams
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Corrado Barbui
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Côté-Olijnyk M, Perry JC, Paré MÈ, Kronick R. The mental health of migrants living in limbo: A mixed-methods systematic review with meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2024; 337:115931. [PMID: 38733932 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The number of forcibly displaced people has more than doubled over the past decade. Many people fleeing are left in limbo without a secure pathway to citizenship or residency. This mixed-methods systematic review reports the prevalence of mental disorders in migrants living in limbo, the association between limbo and mental illness, and the experiences of these migrants in high income countries. We searched electronic databases for quantitative and qualitative studies published after January 1, 2010, on mental illness in precarious migrants living in HICs and performed a meta-analysis of prevalence rates. Fifty-eight articles met inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis yielded prevalence rates of 43.0 % for anxiety disorders (95 % CI 29.0-57.0), 49.5 % for depression (40.9-58.0) and 40.8 % for posttraumatic stress disorder (30.7-50.9). Having an insecure status was associated with higher rates of mental illness in most studies comparing migrants in limbo to those with secure status. Six themes emerged from the qualitative synthesis: the threat of deportation, uncertainty, social exclusion, stigmatization, social connection and religion. Clinicians should take an ecosocial approach to care that attends to stressors and symptoms. Furthermore, policymakers can mitigate the development of mental disorders among migrants by adopting policies that ensure rapid pathways to protected status.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Christopher Perry
- McGill University, Department of Psychiatry, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Paré
- University of Montreal, Department of Anthropology, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Cegep Édouard-Montpetit, Department of Anthropology, Longueuil, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rachel Kronick
- McGill University, Department of Psychiatry, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Division of Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Hilado A, Charvonia A, Martinez Araujo WR, Rami F, Sanchez E. Supporting Migrant Children in Pediatric Settings: Lessons Learned from the US Migrant Humanitarian Crisis Response. Pediatr Ann 2024; 53:e171-e177. [PMID: 38700915 DOI: 10.3928/19382359-20240306-05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
This article examines the influx of migrants to the United States and highlights current global and local immigration trends. The authors focus on migrant children-specifically the effect of migration trauma in the context of humanitarian responses to the intentional movement of migrants to Democrat-led cities across the US to humanize the compounded effects of migration trauma, restrictive immigration policies, and the current resettlement landscape for migrants. The authors are directly involved with supporting migrant arrivals who have relocated to Chicago from the southern border, and apply field knowledge to articulate current barriers to accessing health care and best practices within pediatric settings supporting migrant arrivals. Clinical and practice implications for medical providers in pediatric settings are included. The article also highlights the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in providing health care to asylum-seeking migrants and implications for transdisciplinary workforce development in this area. [Pediatr Ann. 2024;53(5):e171-e177.].
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Rawers C, Redican E, Alpay EH, McElroy E, Shevlin M. Multiple trauma exposure and psychopathology in Syrian refugees living in Turkey: A latent class analysis. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2024; 245:104220. [PMID: 38490133 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND After the Syrian civil war, millions of Syrian refugees migrated to neighboring countries, with the majority settling in Turkey. The prevalence of mental disorders is notably higher among refugee populations. However, prior research on Syrian refugees have mostly used variable-centred approaches which have known limitations. Thus, the present study sought to examine the occurrence and co-occurrence of traumatic experiences among Syrian refugees living in Turkey using latent class analysis (LCA). Additionally, this study aimed to identify the associations between latent class membership and trauma-related psychopathology. METHODS Participants included 593 Syrian refugees living in Turkey. LCA was used to identify latent classes of trauma exposure. Demographic predictors of the latent classes were examined and associations with PTSD, CPTSD, depression and anxiety were also explored. RESULTS Three latent classes were identified based on trauma exposure; a "multiple traumas" class, "war and human suffering" class, and "low exposure, combat-exposed" class. Odds of PTSD, CPTSD, depression, or anxiety diagnosis did not differ significantly between classes, with the exception of the "multiple traumas" class who were more likely to meet the criteria for anxiety diagnosis compared to the "low exposure" class. LIMITATIONS Historic psychiatric symptoms or post-migration stressors could not be accounted for in this study, which may explain the lack of significant differences in most mental health outcomes by trauma exposure class. DISCUSSION The latent classes identified in this study correspond with previous research regarding trauma in Syrian refugees. However, this study largely failed to find significant differences in mental health diagnoses between classes. Future research should consider the effect of post-migration stressors in refugee populations, which may play a crucial role in mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Enya Redican
- Ulster University, School of Psychology, Coleraine, UK
| | | | - Eoin McElroy
- Ulster University, School of Psychology, Coleraine, UK
| | - Mark Shevlin
- Ulster University, School of Psychology, Coleraine, UK.
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Kordel P, Rządeczka M, Studenna-Skrukwa M, Kwiatkowska-Moskalewicz K, Goncharenko O, Moskalewicz M. Acute Stress Disorder among 2022 Ukrainian war refugees: a cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1280236. [PMID: 38550313 PMCID: PMC10976942 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1280236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Fleeing from war can be terrifying and result in Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), a mental health condition that can occur in the first month after a traumatic event. The study aimed to identify the prevalence of ASD among Ukrainian refugees and identify its risk factors to create a profile of the most vulnerable refugees. Methods This cross-sectional study of 637 Ukrainian war-displaced persons and refugees in 2022 used the Acute Stress Disorder Scale. Results The prevalence of ASD among participants was high (93.5%). Several factors increasing the risk of developing ASD in the sample were identified, e.g., witnessing Russian attacks (OR 2.92, 95% CI 1.26-6.78), insufficient financial resources (OR 3.56, 95% CI 1.61-7.91), and feeling of loneliness in the host country (OR 3.07, 95% CI 1.58-8.69). Pre-existing depression and the death of a close person, among others, were found to significantly (p < 0.05) exacerbate the ASD symptoms. At the same time, neither age, the distance traveled, time spent on fleeing the country, nor the type of companionship during refuge (escaping alone, with children, pets or the older adults) correlate with the severity of symptoms. Conclusion The study shows extreme levels of trauma among Ukrainian war refugees and displaced persons. Knowledge regarding ASD vulnerabilities in the present conflict may facilitate prompt and adequate psychological help. Since ASD can be an antecedent of PTSD and several autoimmune disorders, these results may also serve as a predictor of future challenges for Ukrainian society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Kordel
- Philosophy of Mental Health Unit, Department of Social Sciences and the Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Marcin Rządeczka
- Institute of Philosophy, Marie Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, Poland
- IDEAS NCBR, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Olga Goncharenko
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Social Technologies, National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Marcin Moskalewicz
- Philosophy of Mental Health Unit, Department of Social Sciences and the Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
- Institute of Philosophy, Marie Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, Poland
- IDEAS NCBR, Warsaw, Poland
- Psychiatric Clinic, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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Andualem F, Melkam M, Takelle GM, Nakie G, Tinsae T, Fentahun S, Rtbey G, Begashaw TD, Seid J, Tegegn LF, Gedef GM, Bitew DA, Godana TN. Prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder and associated factors among displaced people in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1336665. [PMID: 38516263 PMCID: PMC10956696 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1336665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The number of people who have been displaced from their homes due to violence, conflict, and natural disasters. The displaced persons are vulnerable to PTSD; however, being women, individuals with lower socio-economic status and intense exposure to physical assault are more vulnerable. The reviews stated that the pooled prevalence of PTSD among refugees in high-income countries was higher than the general population. However, there has been no review done on PTSD among displaced persons in Africa. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarise the most recent data evidence on the pooled prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder and the pooled effect of associated factors on adult displaced people in Africa. Methods We used an appropriate guideline for systematic reviews and meta-analyses reports, which is the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). This review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023411371). The publications were identified from PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Scopus databases, and other grey searches of Google Scholar and World Health Organisation (WHO) reports. The data was extracted in Microsoft Excel, and then it will be imported into STATA 11.0 for analysis. Results We have included 10 studies conducted in African countries with 5287 study participants. In this meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of PTSD among displaced people in Africa was 55.64 (95% CI: 42.76-68.41%). Further, in subgroup analysis regarding the study participants, the pooled prevalence of PTSD among internally displaced people and refugees was 56.35% and 54.04%, respectively. Among the associated factors, being female, unemployed, and depression were significantly related to PTSD among displaced people. Conclusions In this review, the pooled prevalence of PTSD among displaced people in Africa was high. Demographic characteristics (female, single, and unemployed), substance use disorder, and depression were risk factors for PTSD among displaced people. This finding might help the stakeholders (mental health policy makers, administrators, and mental health professionals) to address the prevention, early screening, and management of PTSD among displaced people and to give attention to more vulnerable bodies. Systematic review registration PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023411371.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fantahun Andualem
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mamaru Melkam
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Girmaw Medfu Takelle
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Girum Nakie
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Techilo Tinsae
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Setegn Fentahun
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gidey Rtbey
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Derbie Begashaw
- Department of Psychiatry College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Jemal Seid
- Department of Psychiatry College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Lidiya Fasil Tegegn
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Science, Arsi University, Asella, Ethiopia
| | - Getachew Muluye Gedef
- Department of General Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Desalegn Anmut Bitew
- Department of Reproductive Health, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tilahun Nega Godana
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Gondar College of Medicine and Health Science, Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Lange S, Glatz T, Eiset AH. Association of pre-migration socioeconomic status and post-migration mental health in Syrian refugees in Lebanon: a descriptive sex-stratified cross-sectional analysis. Glob Health Res Policy 2024; 9:9. [PMID: 38439074 PMCID: PMC10910804 DOI: 10.1186/s41256-024-00347-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Refugee populations present with high levels of psychological distress, which may vary among sociodemographic characteristics. Understanding the distribution across these characteristics is crucial to subsequently provide more tailored support to the most affected according to their specific healthcare needs. This study therefore seeks to investigate the association between pre-migration socioeconomic status (SES) and post-migration mental health separately for male and female Syrian refugees in Lebanon. METHODS In a cross-sectional study, a cluster randomized sample of 599 refugees from Syria were recruited between 2016 and 2019 within 12 months after they fled to Lebanon. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between self-reported pre-migration SES and levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms assessed on the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25 (HSCL-25) scale, both for the entire sample and stratified by sex. To assess the informative value of self-reported SES, its correlation with education variables was tested. All analyses were conducted in R version 4.3. RESULTS Using complete cases, 457 participants (322 female, 135 male) were included in the analyses. Females showed on average more symptoms of anxiety (Median: 2.5) and depression (Median: 2.4) than males (Median: 2.10 and 2.07, respectively). Below average SES was associated with significantly higher odds for mental illness compared to average SES (anxiety: OR 4.28, 95% CI [2.16, 9.49]; depression: OR 1.85, 95% CI [1.06, 3.36]). For anxiety, differences between SES strata were larger for males than females. The self-reported SES measure showed only a weak positive correlation with education. CONCLUSIONS This study adds additional descriptive data highlighting mental health differences in Syrian refugees in Lebanon, whereby below average SES is associated with worse mental health outcomes compared to average SES. These findings demand further research into the underlying mechanisms. Improving our understanding of the observed differences will provide valuable insights that can contribute to the future development of targeted measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Lange
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Toivo Glatz
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Halgreen Eiset
- Department of Public Health, Center for Global Health (GloHAU), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Clinic for PTSD and Anxiety, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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10
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Kuo BCH, Rappaport LM. A prospective longitudinal study of depression, perceived stress, and perceived control in resettled Syrian refugees' mental health and psychosocial adaptation. Transcult Psychiatry 2024:13634615241227696. [PMID: 38356312 DOI: 10.1177/13634615241227696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
This prospective study examined the psychosocial adaptation of a community sample of newly resettled Syrian refugees in Canada (N = 235). Specifically, depressive symptoms, perceived stress, and perceived control were collected in Arabic at baseline and 1-year follow-up. Two theory-informed, cross-lagged panel models demonstrated that higher baseline depressive symptoms predicted lower perceived self-efficacy and lower perceived control at 1-year follow-up. Similarly, baseline depressive symptoms were concurrently correlated with higher perceived helplessness, lower perceived self-efficacy, and lower perceived control. Secondary regression analyses further demonstrated that baseline depressive symptoms predicted lower perceived social support and higher anxiety symptoms, though neither were assessed at baseline. Empirical results identify a potentially broad, precipitating, and persistent effect of depressive symptoms on Syrian refugees' psychosocial resources and adaptation post-migration, which is consistent with both the transactional model of stress and coping and the self-efficacy theory of depression, respectively. Clinically, the study results highlight the importance of early screening for depressive symptoms among refugee newcomers within a culturally and trauma-informed, integrated health setting. Furthermore, this study underscores the value and need for theoretically guided longitudinal studies to advance future research on refugee mental health and psychosocial adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben C H Kuo
- Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Community based sociotherapy for depressive symptomatology of Congolese refugees in Rwanda and Uganda (CoSTAR): a protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2151281. [PMID: 37052106 PMCID: PMC9869985 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2022.2151281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo has led to large numbers of refugees fleeing to Uganda and Rwanda. Refugees experience elevated levels of adverse events and daily stressors, which are associated with common mental health difficulties such as depression. The current cluster randomised controlled trial aims to investigate whether an adapted form of Community-based Sociotherapy (aCBS) is effective and cost-effective in reducing depressive symptomatology experienced by Congolese refugees in Uganda and Rwanda.Methods: A two-arm, single-blind cluster randomised controlled trial (cRCT) will be conducted in Kyangwali settlement, Uganda and Gihembe camp, Rwanda. Sixty-four clusters will be recruited and randomly assigned to either aCBS or Enhanced Care As Usual (ECAU). aCBS, a 15-session group-based intervention, will be facilitated by two people drawn from the refugee communities. The primary outcome measure will be self-reported levels of depressive symptomatology (PHQ-9) at 18-weeks post-randomisation. Secondary outcomes will include levels of mental health difficulties, subjective wellbeing, post-displacement stress, perceived social support, social capital, quality of life, and PTSD symptoms at 18-week and 32-week post-randomisation. Cost effectiveness of aCBS will be measured in terms of health care costs (cost per Disability Adjusted Life Year, DALY) compared to ECAU. A process evaluation will be undertaken to investigate the implementation of aCBS.Conclusion: This cRCT will be the first investigating aCBS for mental health difficulties experienced by refugees and will contribute to knowledge about the use of psychosocial interventions for refugees at a time when levels of forced migration are at a record high.Trial registration: ISRCTN.org identifier: ISRCTN20474555.
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Caroppo E, Calabrese C, Mazza M, Rinaldi A, Coluzzi D, Napoli P, Sapienza M, Porfiri M, De Lellis P. Migrants' mental health recovery in Italian reception facilities. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2023; 3:162. [PMID: 37993495 PMCID: PMC10665420 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-023-00385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Forced migration leaves deep marks on the psychological well-being of migrants, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological conditions being prevalent among them. While research has clarified the extent to which pre-migration trauma is a predictor of mental health outcomes, the role of post-migration stressors in the settlement environment are yet to be fully characterized. METHODS We monitored mental health of a cohort of 100 asylum-seekers during their 14-day COVID-19-related quarantine in reception facilities in Rome, Italy, through the administration of six questionnaires (a demographic survey, the WHO-5 well-being index, the Primary Care PTSD Screen for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5), the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, the Trauma and Loss Spectrum-Self Report, and the LiMEs-Italian version). Through the combination of statistical analysis and supervised learning, we studied the impact of the first contact with the reception system on asylum-seekers' mental health and sought for possible risk and shielding factors for PTSD. RESULTS We find that sheltering in refugee centers has a positive impact on migrants' mental health; asylum-seekers with PTSD reported more traumatic events and personality characteristics related to loss and trauma; life events are predictors of PTSD in asylum-seekers. CONCLUSIONS We identify past traumatic experiences as predictors of PTSD, and establish the positive role the immediate post-migration environment can play on migrants' psychological well-being. We recommend for host countries to implement reception models that provide effective protection and integration of asylum-seekers, similar to those in the Italian system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Caroppo
- Department of Mental Health, Local Health Authority Roma 2, Rome, Italy.
| | - Carmela Calabrese
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systémes (INS), Aix Marseille Université, 13, Marseille, France
| | - Marianna Mazza
- Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology, Department of Geriatrics, Neuroscience and Orthopedics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Coluzzi
- Migrant Health Unit, Local Health Authority Roma 2, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Martina Sapienza
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Porfiri
- Center for Urban Science and Progress, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York University Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | - Pietro De Lellis
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
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Kantor V, Weindl D, Schiess-Jokanovic J, Verginer L, Lueger-Schuster B, Knefel M. Self-perceived problems of Afghan asylum seekers and refugees and their experiences with a short psychological intervention. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2157. [PMID: 37924097 PMCID: PMC10625214 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17076-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study examined Afghan asylum seekers' and refugees' self-perceived problems, and their experiences of treatment with an adapted version of the brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention "Problem Management Plus" (aPM+). Specifically, the study explored which problems trouble them most and how these problems influence their daily functioning. Further, it examined how various standardized outcome measures correlate with these subjectively perceived problems. METHOD This study is part of a larger RCT study (PIAAS study) in which 88 Afghan asylum seekers and refugees were randomly allocated either to aPM + in addition to treatment as usual (aPM+/TAU) or TAU alone. The presented study uses a multi-method approach consisting of two parts: First, we investigated participants' self-identified problems and subjective functional impairment using quantitative and qualitative assessment in both the aPM+/TAU and TAU group (n = 88). Second, we conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with a subsample of the aPM+/TAU group (n = 24) to gain a deeper understanding of participants' personal experiences with aPM + and to obtain suggestions for improvement. Spearman correlations were applied for quantitative data, and deductive and inductive approaches of thematic analysis were used for qualitative data. RESULTS We identified six main themes of self-perceived problems (primary post-migration living difficulties, general mental health problems, interpersonal stressors, secondary post-migration living difficulties, mental health problems specifically associated with stress, and somatic problems) and their consequences, as well as subjective functional impairment. Standardized measures of general mental health, posttraumatic psychopathology, and quality of life did not correlate with the intensity of self-perceived problems. aPM + was mostly perceived positively, and few participants had recommendations for its improvement. CONCLUSION The study aimed at giving a voice to Afghan trauma survivors to inform service providers and policy makers about their needs. Based on their expertise, future interventions can be tailored to their actual needs and optimized in terms of practical use. aPM + proved to be a positively perceived intervention that reduces subjective symptom burden and facilitates daily functioning. Culture-sensitive treatments within (mental) health services should increase service utilization and improve (mental) health in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Kantor
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, Vienna, 1010, Austria
| | - Dina Weindl
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, Vienna, 1010, Austria.
| | - Jennifer Schiess-Jokanovic
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, Vienna, 1010, Austria
| | - Lucia Verginer
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, Vienna, 1010, Austria
| | - Brigitte Lueger-Schuster
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, Vienna, 1010, Austria
| | - Matthias Knefel
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, Vienna, 1010, Austria
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Mohammadifirouzeh M, Oh KM, Basnyat I, Gimm G. Factors Associated with Professional Mental Help-Seeking Among U.S. Immigrants: A Systematic Review. J Immigr Minor Health 2023; 25:1118-1136. [PMID: 37000385 PMCID: PMC10063938 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01475-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Structural and cultural barriers have led to limited access to and use of mental health services among immigrants in the United States (U.S.). This study provided a systematic review of factors associated with help-seeking attitudes, intentions, and behaviors among immigrants who are living in the U.S. This systematic review was performed using Medline, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, Global Health, and Web of Science. Qualitative and quantitative studies examining mental help-seeking among immigrants in the U.S. were included. 954 records were identified through a search of databases. After removing duplicates and screening by title and abstract, a total of 104 articles were eligible for full-text review and a total of 19 studies were included. Immigrants are more reluctant to seek help from professional mental health services due to barriers such as stigma, cultural beliefs, lack of English language proficiency, and lack of trust in health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Mohammadifirouzeh
- College of Public Health, School of Nursing, George Mason University, 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030 USA
| | - Kyeung Mi Oh
- College of Public Health, School of Nursing, George Mason University, 3C4, Peterson Hall 3041, 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030 USA
| | - Iccha Basnyat
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Global Affairs Program and Department of Communication, George Mason University, Horizon Hall 5200, Fairfax, VA 22030 USA
| | - Gilbert Gimm
- College of Public Health, Department of Health Administration and Policy, George Mason University, MS-1-J3, Peterson Hall 4410, 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030 USA
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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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Anwar A, Yadav UN, Huda MN, Das S, Rosenbaum S, Ali ARMM, Mondal PK, Rizwan AAM, Hossain SFA, Das Shuvo S, Mistry SK. Anxiety and Stress Related to COVID-19 Among the Community Dwelling Older Adults Residing in the Largest Refugee Camp of the World. Community Ment Health J 2023; 59:1181-1192. [PMID: 36879112 PMCID: PMC9988202 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01101-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The current cross-sectional study was conducted among 864 older adults aged ≥ 60 years residing in Rohingya refugee camp through face-to-face interviews during November-December 2021. COVID-19-related anxiety was measured using the five-point Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) and perceived stress using the 10-point Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The linear regression model identified the factors associated with COVID-19-related anxiety and perceived stress. The prevalence of COVID-19-related anxiety and perceived stress was 68% and 93%, respectively. The average COVID-19-related anxiety score expected to be significantly higher among those who were physically inactive, concerned about COVID-19, had a close friend/family member diagnosed with COVID-19, and had some difficulty in getting food and routine medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, the average perceived stress score was expected to be significantly higher among those without partners, who were feeling overwhelmed by COVID-19, and who experienced COVID-19-related anxiety during the pandemic. The findings suggest providing immediate psychosocial support to older Rohingya adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsana Anwar
- Health and Nutrition, Social Assistance &Amp; Rehabilitation for the Physically Vulnerable (SARPV), SARPV Complex, Link Road, Cox's Bazar, 4700, Bangladesh
| | - Uday Narayan Yadav
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Md Nazmul Huda
- School of Medicine, Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, 2560, Australia
- ARCED Foundation, 13/1, Pallabi, Mirpur-12, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sukanta Das
- Department of Statistics, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur, Bangladesh
| | - Simon Rosenbaum
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Probal Kumar Mondal
- Health and Nutrition, Social Assistance &Amp; Rehabilitation for the Physically Vulnerable (SARPV), SARPV Complex, Link Road, Cox's Bazar, 4700, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Ansar Md Rizwan
- Health and Nutrition, Social Assistance &Amp; Rehabilitation for the Physically Vulnerable (SARPV), SARPV Complex, Link Road, Cox's Bazar, 4700, Bangladesh
| | | | - Suvasish Das Shuvo
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - Sabuj Kanti Mistry
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
- ARCED Foundation, 13/1, Pallabi, Mirpur-12, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
- Department of Public Health, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, 1207, Bangladesh.
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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Pozuelo JR, Bradenbrink R, Stierna MF, Sterck O. Depression, violence and socioeconomic outcomes among refugees in East Africa: evidence from a multicountry representative survey. BMJ MENTAL HEALTH 2023; 26:e300773. [PMID: 37597876 PMCID: PMC10577724 DOI: 10.1136/bmjment-2023-300773] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing research on refugee mental health is heavily skewed towards refugees in high-income countries, even though most refugees (83%) are hosted in low-income and middle-income countries. This problem is further compounded by the unrepresentativeness of samples, small sample sizes and low response rates. OBJECTIVE To present representative findings on the prevalence and correlates of depression among different refugee subgroups in East Africa. METHODS We conducted a multicountry representative survey of refugee and host populations in urban and camp contexts in Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia (n=15 915). We compared the prevalence of depression between refugee and host populations and relied on regression analysis to explore the association between violence, depression and socioeconomic outcomes. FINDINGS We found a high prevalence of elevated depressive symptoms (31%, 95% CI 28% to 35%) and functional impairment (62%, 95% CI 58% to 66%) among the refugee population, which was significantly higher than that found in the host population (10% for depressive symptoms, 95% CI 8% to 13% and 25% for functional impairment, 95% CI 22% to 28%) (p<0·001). Further, we observed a dose-response relationship between exposure to violence and mental illness. Lastly, high depressive symptoms and functional impairment were associated with worse socioeconomic outcomes. CONCLUSION Our results highlight that refugees in East-Africa-particularly those exposed to violence and extended exile periods-are disproportionately affected by depression, which may also hinder their socioeconomic integration. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Given the high prevalence of depression among refugees in East Africa, our results underline the need for scalable interventions that can promote refugees' well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia R Pozuelo
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Maria Flinder Stierna
- Department of International Development, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- ODI (Overseas Development Institute), London, UK
| | - Olivier Sterck
- Department of International Development, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Institute of Development Policy, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
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18
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Schiess-Jokanovic J, Gösling-Steirer C, Kantor V, Knefel M, Weindl D, Lueger-Schuster B. "My brain freezes and I am blocked again": The subjective experience of post-migration living difficulties influenced by complex posttraumatic stress disorder of Afghan asylum seekers and refugees in Austria. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288691. [PMID: 37494342 PMCID: PMC10370748 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Potentially traumatic experiences and post-migration living difficulties (PMLDs) undoubtedly leave marks on mental health and psychosocial functioning. While PMLDs are recognised as a risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder and complex posttraumatic stress disorder (described together here as C/PTSD), recent investigations have found that C/PTSD symptoms might also influence the experience of PMLDs. The subjective experience of and coping with PMLDs in the context of C/PTSD symptoms has not yet been explored. METHODS Semi-structured, interpreter-assisted interviews exploring the subjective experience of post-migration living difficulties were conducted with treatment-seeking Afghan refugees and asylum seekers (N = 24) and transcribed verbatim. Participants were screened using the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) and allocated to a C/PTSD group or non-C/PTSD group. We analysed the qualitative interviews using content analysis and then compared the results of the two groups. RESULTS Over half of the participants (58.3%) met the criteria for C/PTSD. While the two groups addressed numerous similar themes, the C/PTSD group more frequently mentioned themes associated with C/PTSD symptoms (e.g., intrusions, avoidance, sleep disturbances, affective dysregulation) that influenced their responses to PMLDs. The non-C/PTSD group more often experienced positive emotions such as gratitude and optimism, and showed more active, solution-oriented behaviour as well as positive self-verbalisation. CONCLUSION To achieve a deeper understanding of PMLDs, post-traumatic psychopathology should be taken into account, as C/PTSD symptoms influence the experience of and coping with PMLDs. The specifics of individual experiences need to be considered in order to promote adaptive coping with PMLDs and to set individual trauma-focused and transdiagnostic treatment targets. In addition, psychological interventions should incorporate psychoeducation to improve the understanding of the impact of C/PTSD on the current experience of PMLDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Schiess-Jokanovic
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Gösling-Steirer
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Viktoria Kantor
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Knefel
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dina Weindl
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Brigitte Lueger-Schuster
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Lotito C, Turrini G, Purgato M, Bryant RA, Felez-Nobrega M, Haro JM, Lorant V, McDaid D, Mediavilla R, Melchior M, Nicaise P, Nosè M, Park AL, McGreevy KR, Roos R, Tortelli A, Underhill J, Martinez JV, Witteveen A, Sijbrandij M, Barbui C. Views and experiences of migrants and stakeholders involved in social and health care for migrants in Italy during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:164. [PMID: 37208725 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01208-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has had major and potentially long-lasting effects on mental health and wellbeing across populations worldwide. However, these impacts were not felt equally, leading to an exacerbation of health inequalities, especially affecting vulnerable populations such as migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. Aiming to inform the adaptation and implementation of psychological intervention programmes, the present study investigated priority mental health needs in this population group. METHODS Participants were adult asylum seekers, refugees and migrants (ARMs) and stakeholders with experience in the field of migration living in Verona, Italy, and fluent in Italian and English. A two-stage process was carried out to examine their needs using qualitative methods including free listing interviews and focus group discussions, according to Module One of the DIME (Design, Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation) manual. Data were analyzed using an inductive thematic analyses approach. RESULTS A total of 19 participants (12 stakeholders, 7 ARMs) completed the free listing interviews and 20 participants (12 stakeholders and 8 ARMs) attended focus group discussions. Salient problems and functions that emerged during free listing interviews were discussed during the focus group discussions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ARMs struggled with many everyday living difficulties in their resettlement country due to social and economic issues, revealing a strong influence of contextual factors in determining mental health. Both ARMs and stakeholders highlighted a mismatch between needs, expectations and interventions as factors that may hamper proper implementation of health and social programmes. CONCLUSIONS The present findings could help in the adaptation and implementation of psychological interventions targeting the needs of asylum seekers, refugees and migrants aiming to find a match between needs, expectations, and the corresponding interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registration number 2021-UNVRCLE-0106707, February 11 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lotito
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Turrini
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Marianna Purgato
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mireia Felez-Nobrega
- Research, Innovation and Teaching Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Haro
- Research, Innovation and Teaching Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Vincent Lorant
- Institute of Health and Society (IRSS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - David McDaid
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Roberto Mediavilla
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigaci?n Biom?dica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
- Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Melchior
- Département d'Epidémiologie Sociale, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, 27 rue de Chaligny, Paris, 75012, France
| | - Pablo Nicaise
- Institute of Health and Society (IRSS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michela Nosè
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - A-La Park
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Kerry R McGreevy
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigaci?n Biom?dica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rinske Roos
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Tortelli
- Département d'Epidémiologie Sociale, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, 27 rue de Chaligny, Paris, 75012, France
| | | | - Julian Vadell Martinez
- Département d'Epidémiologie Sociale, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, 27 rue de Chaligny, Paris, 75012, France
| | - Anke Witteveen
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Hanft-Robert S, Lindberg LG, Mösko M, Carlsson J. A balancing act: how interpreters affect the therapeutic alliance in psychotherapy with trauma-affected refugees-a qualitative study with therapists. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1175597. [PMID: 37260954 PMCID: PMC10228651 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1175597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The therapeutic alliance (TA) has the highest predictive value concerning the success of psychotherapy. The presented study aimed to explore how the presence of an interpreter affects the TA when working with trauma-affected refugees. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven psychologists working in an outpatient clinic specialized in mental health care for migrant and refugee patients with trauma-related mental health problems in Denmark. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a structuring content analysis approach. Results TA has been described as a dynamic therapist-interpreter-patient alliance triangle consisting of three distinct but highly intertwined and mutually influential dyadic alliances. Specific factors affecting the quality of the TA were identified, e.g., interpreter being emotionally attuned yet not overly involved; interpreter being barely visible yet present as a human being. Characteristics of trauma-affected refugee patients affecting the TA formation were also identified, e.g., a high level of personal distrust, different understandings of mental disorders and psychotherapy, stigmatization, perceptions of authorities. Conclusion The presence of interpreters was perceived ambivalently and the formation of a good TA seems to be a balancing act. Based on the findings, recommendations for forming and maintaining a good TA in interpreter-mediated psychotherapy are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Hanft-Robert
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Laura Glahder Lindberg
- Mental Health Center Ballerup, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mike Mösko
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Applied Human Sciences, Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jessica Carlsson
- Mental Health Center Ballerup, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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21
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Spaaij J, Fuhr DC, Akhtar A, Casanova L, Klein T, Schick M, Weilenmann S, Roberts B, Morina N. Scaling-up problem management plus for refugees in Switzerland - a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:488. [PMID: 37189160 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09491-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Refugees are at an increased risk of developing symptoms of mental disorders but face various structural and socio-cultural barriers to accessing mental health care. The SPIRIT project (Scaling-up Psychological Interventions in Refugees In SwiTzerland) seeks to promote the resilience of refugees and improve their access to mental health care. For this purpose, Problem Management Plus (PM+), an evidence-based low-intensity psychological intervention delivered by trained non-specialist "helpers", is being scaled-up in Switzerland. OBJECTIVE To identify factors influencing the process of the large-scale implementation of PM + for refugees in Switzerland and to develop recommendations to guide the implementation process. METHODS 22 semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants (Syrian refugees who previously participated in PM+, PM + helpers, health professionals working with refugees and decision-makers from the migration, integration, social, and health sectors). The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, combining an inductive and deductive approach. RESULTS The data revealed three major themes, which might have an impact for the longer-term implementation of PM + in Switzerland. First, preconditions for successful integration in the health system prior to scaling-up such as sustainable funding or the introduction of a stepped care approach. Second, the requirements for the PM + intervention supporting scale-up such as quality control during PM + delivery, PM + modality, time and setting when PM + is offered or the views on task sharing. Third, the perceived benefits of scaling-up PM + in Switzerland. CONCLUSIONS Our results have shown that PM + must be scaled-up within a stepped care approach, including a functioning triage system and sustainable funding. Rather than selecting one modality or setting, it seemed preferable to offer a variety of formats and settings to achieve maximum reach and benefits. A successful scale-up of PM + in Switzerland might have various benefits. Communicating them to policy-makers and health providers, might enhance their acceptability of the intervention and their willingness to adopt PM + in regulatory structure and promote it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Spaaij
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland.
| | - Daniela C Fuhr
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology, Bremen, Germany
- Health Sciences, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Aemal Akhtar
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Insurance Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Luisa Casanova
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Klein
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
| | - Sonja Weilenmann
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
| | - Bayard Roberts
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
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Apers H, Van Praag L, Nöstlinger C, Agyemang C. Interventions to improve the mental health or mental well-being of migrants and ethnic minority groups in Europe: A scoping review. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2023; 10:e23. [PMID: 37854435 PMCID: PMC10579672 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2023.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In Europe, migrants and ethnic minority groups are at greater risk for mental disorders compared to the general population. However, little is known about which interventions improve their mental health and well-being and about their underlying mechanisms that reduce existing mental health inequities. To fill this gap, the aim of this scoping review was to synthesise the available evidence on health promotion, prevention, and non-medical treatment interventions targeting migrants and ethnic minority populations. By mapping and synthesising the findings, including facilitators and barriers for intervention uptake, this scoping review provides valuable insights for developing future interventions. We used the PICo strategy and PRISMA guidelines to select peer-reviewed articles assessing studies on interventions. In total, we included 27 studies and synthesised the results based on the type of intervention, intervention mechanisms and outcomes, and barriers and facilitators to intervention uptake. We found that the selected studies implemented tailored interventions to reach these specific populations who are at risk due to structural inequities such as discrimination and racism, stigma associated with mental health, language barriers, and problems in accessing health care. The majority of interventions showed a positive effect on participants' mental health, indicating the importance of using a tailored approach. We identified three main successful mechanisms for intervention development and implementation: a sound theory-base, systematic adaption to make interventions culturally sensitive and participatory approaches. Moreover, this review indicates the need to holistically address social determinants of health through intersectoral programming to promote and improve mental health among migrants and ethnic minority populations. We identified current shortcomings and knowledge gaps within this field: rigorous intervention studies were scarce, there was a large diversity regarding migrant population groups and few studies evaluated the interventions' (cost-)effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Apers
- Centre for Migration and Intercultural Studies/Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lore Van Praag
- Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Christiana Nöstlinger
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Charles Agyemang
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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23
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Cuadrado C, Libuy M, Moreno-Serra R. What is the impact of forced displacement on health? A scoping review. Health Policy Plan 2023; 38:394-408. [PMID: 36629500 PMCID: PMC10019572 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czad002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
While there is a broad literature analysing the effects of migration on health, important knowledge gaps persist particularly on the causal effects of forced displacement on health outcomes. We undertake a scoping review of applied epidemiological, statistical and econometric studies examining causal health impacts of forced displacement, which initially identified 1454 studies from the health and social sciences disciplines published up to May 2021. Our study makes two key contributions. First, we offer a comprehensive overview of the evidence generated, methodologies adopted and analytical challenges faced by current research examining the causal relationship between forced displacement and health. Second, we present concrete examples of how key challenges around study design and estimation approaches influence the strength of the evidence-base on the topic, using as a case study the broad domain of reproductive health. We find that, beyond the increased mortality risk that can be attributed to forced displacement, most of the available empirical evidence for a wide range of health outcomes is prone to substantial bias, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Our synthesis of credible studies conducted in different settings indicates that current research practice in the field could be strengthened through selection of valid control groups and application of more appropriate causal inference methods. Our findings are useful to promote the generation of further evidence on the topic that can reliably inform the design of policies to protect the health of displaced populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matías Libuy
- Escuela de Salud Pública, Universidad de Chile, Av. Independencia 939, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Moreno-Serra
- *Corresponding author. Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Alcuin A Block, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK. E-mail:
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24
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Elisa DF, Claudio B, Vincenzo V, Paola R. Compulsory admission: are there differences between migrants and natives? Data from a psychiatric emergency service of an Italian metropolitan area. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14406. [PMID: 36938435 PMCID: PMC10018564 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As compared to natives, higher rates of involuntary admission were found among migrants in most European countries. A possible strategy to reduce this phenomenon is to develop preventive strategies targeting risk and protective factors of compulsory admission specific to the migrant population. Aims The first aim of the present study was to evaluate compulsory admission rates in the migrant population as compared to natives admitted for an acute mental disorder. The second aim was investigate whether sociodemographic, clinical, and care-related variables associated with compulsory admission differed between migrants and natives. Moreover, in the whole sample we assessed whether migrant status affected the risk of compulsory admission. Methods Retrospective single-center study on patients hospitalized in the period between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2020 in a large metropolitan academic hospital. We compared sociodemographic, clinical, and care-related variables between migrants and natives, voluntary or compulsory admitted. We investigated the association between compulsory admission and the variables collected in the whole sample and in the migrants' and natives' groups with a correlation analysis followed by hierarchical logistic regression models. Results The sample included 185 migrant patients and 933 native patients. The prevalence of compulsory admission was significantly higher in the migrants' group. Male gender, lower education, non-comprehension of the local language, a diagnosis of a schizophrenia spectrum disorder, and aggressive behavior were associated with compulsory admission in the migrants' sample, partially differing from the natives. Conclusion Our study highlighted how migrant status is associated with a higher risk for compulsory admission. Inclusion policies or the presence of cultural mediators in emergency settings might be preventive strategies in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Del Favero Elisa
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze “Rita Levi Montalcini”, Università degli Studi di Torino, Via Cherasco 11, Turin, Italy
- Corresponding author.
| | - Brasso Claudio
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze “Rita Levi Montalcini”, Università degli Studi di Torino, Via Cherasco 11, Turin, Italy
| | - Villari Vincenzo
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e Salute Mentale-, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza, Via Cherasco 11, Turin, Italy
| | - Rocca Paola
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze “Rita Levi Montalcini”, Università degli Studi di Torino, Via Cherasco 11, Turin, Italy
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e Salute Mentale-, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza, Via Cherasco 11, Turin, Italy
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25
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Carpiniello B. The Mental Health Costs of Armed Conflicts-A Review of Systematic Reviews Conducted on Refugees, Asylum-Seekers and People Living in War Zones. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2840. [PMID: 36833537 PMCID: PMC9957523 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Armed conflicts produce a wide series of distressing consequences, including death, all of which impact negatively on the lives of survivors. This paper focuses specifically on the mental health consequences of war on adults and child/adolescent refugees or those living in war zones through a review of all systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses published from 2005 up until the current time. RESULTS Fifteen systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses conducted in adult populations, and seven relating to children and adolescents, were selected for the purpose of this review. Prevalence rates of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were two- to three-fold higher amongst people exposed to armed conflict compared to those who had not been exposed, with women and children being the most vulnerable to the outcome of armed conflicts. A series of war-related, migratory and post-migratory stressors contribute to short- and long-term mental health issues in the internally displaced, asylum seekers and refugees. CONCLUSION It should be a required social responsibility for all psychiatrists and psychiatric associations to commit to raising awareness amongst political decision-makers as to the mental health consequences caused by armed conflicts, as part of their duty of care for people experiencing the consequences of war.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo Carpiniello
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari & Psychiatric Unit, University Hospital, 09127 Cagliari, Italy
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26
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Berardelli I, Tarsitani L, Sarubbi S, Pinucci I, Rogante E, Cifrodelli M, Erbuto D, Lester D, Innamorati M, Pompili M. Suicide risk and suicide risk factors among immigrants in Italy: A bi-center matched sample study. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2023; 69:111-116. [PMID: 35083933 DOI: 10.1177/00207640211072425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Italy has the third-largest immigrant population of European Union countries, but only a few research papers have examined suicide risk in immigrant psychiatric patients in Italy. The main aim of this paper was to compare suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in a sample of 304 psychiatric patients. We included 152 immigrant patients matched with 152 Italian patients admitted to the same wards during the same time period by age, gender, and diagnosis. We also investigated sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the two samples including psychiatric diagnosis, age of illness onset, duration of illness, previous hospitalizations, length of hospitalization, previous suicide attempts, and substance and alcohol abuse. There were no differences between immigrant and Italian patients in either suicidal ideation (previous or current) or suicide attempts (previous or current). Immigrant patients were more likely to have a shorter duration of illness than the Italian patients and Italian patients were more likely to report substance abuse than were immigrant patients. Despite similar suicide rates between immigrants and Italian psychiatric inpatients, appropriate assessment of suicide risk in these patients is essential in implementing therapeutic suicide prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Berardelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Suicide Prevention Centre, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Tarsitani
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Sarubbi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Pinucci
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Rogante
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Cifrodelli
- Psychiatry Residency Training Program, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Psychiatry Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Denise Erbuto
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Suicide Prevention Centre, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - David Lester
- Psychology Program, Stockton University, Galloway, NJ, USA
| | - Marco Innamorati
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Suicide Prevention Centre, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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27
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Meurling J, Rondung E, Leiler A, Wasteson E, Andersson G, Richards D, Shahnavaz S, Bjärtå A. An online tiered screening procedure to identify mental health problems among refugees. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:7. [PMID: 36597066 PMCID: PMC9811744 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04481-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many refugees suffer from mental health problems due to stressful and traumatic events before, during, and after migration. However, refugees are facing a wide variety of barriers, limiting their access to mental health care. Internet-based tools, available in several languages, could be one way to increase the availability of mental health services for refugees. The present study aimed to develop and test a screening tool to screen for clinically relevant symptoms of psychiatric disorders common among refugees (i.e. Depression, Anxiety, Post-traumatic stress disorder, and Insomnia). We, designed, translated, and adapted an internet-based tiered screening procedure suitable for use with the largest refugee populations residing in Sweden. The tool aims to accurately identify symptoms of mental distress (Tier 1), differentiate between symptoms of specific psychiatric disorders (Tier 2), and assess symptom severity (Tier 3). We tested the overall efficiency of using a tiered screening procedure. METHODS Seven hundred fifty-seven refugees residing in Sweden, speaking any of the languages Arabic, Dari, Farsi, English, or Swedish, completed an online questionnaire following a three-tiered procedure with screening instruments for each tier. In this study, the Tier 3 scales were used as reference standards for clinically relevant symptoms, to evaluate screening efficiency in terms of accuracy and reduction of item burden in previous tiers. RESULTS The results show that the tiered procedure could reduce the item burden while maintaining high accuracy, with up to 86% correctly assessed symptoms and few false negatives with moderate symptoms and above (at most 9%), and very few with severe symptoms (at most 1.3%). DISCUSSION This study generated an accurate screening tool that efficiently identifies clinically relevant symptoms of common psychiatric disorders among refugees. Using an adapted online tiered procedure to screen for multiple mental health issues among refugees has the potential to facilitate screening and increase access to mental health services for refugees. We discuss the utility of the screening tool and the necessity of further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Meurling
- Department of Psychology and Social work, Mid Sweden University, 831 25, Östersund, Sweden.
| | - Elisabet Rondung
- grid.29050.3e0000 0001 1530 0805Department of Psychology and Social work, Mid Sweden University, 831 25 Östersund, Sweden
| | - Anna Leiler
- grid.29050.3e0000 0001 1530 0805Department of Psychology and Social work, Mid Sweden University, 831 25 Östersund, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Wasteson
- grid.29050.3e0000 0001 1530 0805Department of Psychology and Social work, Mid Sweden University, 831 25 Östersund, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- grid.5640.70000 0001 2162 9922Department of Behavioral Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Derek Richards
- grid.8217.c0000 0004 1936 9705School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Shervin Shahnavaz
- grid.467087.a0000 0004 0442 1056Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Insititutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Bjärtå
- Department of Psychology and Social work, Mid Sweden University, 831 25, Östersund, Sweden.
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Scalable interventions for refugees. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2023; 10:e8. [PMID: 36843882 PMCID: PMC9947626 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2022.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Refugees experience a greater rate of common mental disorders relative to most other populations, and there remains a need to address these needs. However, most refugees are hosted in low-and-middle-income countries, where there is a lack of resources and mental health providers who can deliver mainstream mental health services. This situation has led to the emergence of scalable mental health interventions that can deliver evidence-based programs to refugees in need. Many countries hosting refugees have implemented programs that train local lay providers in interventions that can be delivered at scale. This review provides a narrative overview of these scalable interventions and critiques the evidence for their efficacy. It is noted that there are limitations to currently available scalable interventions, and there is a need for greater attention to determining the longer-term benefits of interventions, addressing the mental health needs of refugees who do not respond to these interventions, assisting refugees with more severe psychological disorders, and understanding the specific mechanisms that underpin observed benefits of these interventions.
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Bougioukas KI, Pamporis K, Vounzoulaki E, Karagiannis T, Haidich AB. Types and associated methodologies of overviews of reviews in health care: a methodological study with published examples. J Clin Epidemiol 2023; 153:13-25. [PMID: 36351511 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To provide a descriptive insight into the different types of research questions/objectives and associated methodologies of overviews of reviews, supplemented by representative examples from the health care literature. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING We searched in methodological articles for information on types and methodologies used in overviews and we explored the typology of reviews to identify similar types in literature of overviews. We categorized the types of overviews based on the research question/objective and the methodological approach used. Indicative examples for each category were selected from a sample of 2,121 overviews that were retrieved between 2000 and 2022 from MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. RESULTS Based on type of research question, overviews were classified as overviews of reviews of interventions, associations, prediction, diagnostic accuracy, prevalence/incidence, experiences/views, economic evaluation, and measurement properties. Based on the methodological approach, we identified a variety of methods (systematic, living, rapid, scoping, evidence mapping, framework, and methodological) used in overviews. CONCLUSION The proposed classification and examples provide an essential starting point for future theory-building research on typologies and study designs of overviews of reviews. It is important for methodologists to make vigorous effort to create consensus-based methodological and reporting guidelines to cover these diverse types and key methodological challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos I Bougioukas
- Department of Hygiene, Social-Preventive Medicine & Medical Statistics, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Pamporis
- Department of Hygiene, Social-Preventive Medicine & Medical Statistics, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Elpida Vounzoulaki
- Diabetes Research Centre, Leicester General Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester LE5 4PW, UK
| | - Thomas Karagiannis
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Second Medical Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece; Diabetes Centre, Second Medical Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna-Bettina Haidich
- Department of Hygiene, Social-Preventive Medicine & Medical Statistics, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Dumke L, Neuner F. Othering refugees: Psychotherapists’ attitudes toward patients with and without a refugee background. Psychother Res 2022; 33:654-668. [DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2022.2150097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lars Dumke
- Department of Psychology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Frank Neuner
- Department of Psychology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
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31
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Müller F, Holman H, Hummers E, Schröder D, Noack EM. Multilingual competencies among ambulatory care providers in three German Federal States. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:315. [PMID: 36474173 PMCID: PMC9724318 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01926-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing medical care to newly arrived migrants presents multiple challenges. A major challenge is a lack of a common language in the absence of language interpretation services. We examine the multilingualism of German physicians and clinical psychotherapists providing ambulatory care. METHODS We retrieved publicly available data from the Associations of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians provider registry of three German federal states (Lower Saxony, Saarland, Bavaria). We selected and grouped relevant practice-based disciplines. We used descriptive statistics to analyze the provider's multilingualism among different disciplines. RESULTS 69.6% of ambulatory providers offer consultations only in German. 15.5% of providers reported offering consultations in one additional non-German language, and 14.9% in two or more additional languages. Most common additional languages were English (28.6%) and French (9.9%). 1.4% of providers reported offering consultation in at least one language of the Middle Eastern region (Arabic, Dari, Hebrew, Kurdish, Pashtu, Farsi, and Turkish). There were differences in the offered languages between the medical disciplines with the highest mean rates found for gynecologists and obstetricians, urologists, and general surgeons. Psychotherapeutic disciplines offered consultation in other languages significantly less often. CONCLUSION Our study suggests a significant numeric mismatch in the number of providers offering consultations in the languages of people seeking protection in Germany. The resulting language barriers are compromising equitable access and quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Müller
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 38, 37073 Göttingen, Germany ,grid.17088.360000 0001 2150 1785Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 15 Michigan St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Harland Holman
- grid.17088.360000 0001 2150 1785Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 15 Michigan St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Eva Hummers
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 38, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dominik Schröder
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 38, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Eva Maria Noack
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 38, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
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Jou YC, Pace-Schott EF. Call to action: Addressing sleep disturbances, a hallmark symptom of PTSD, for refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons. Sleep Health 2022; 8:593-600. [PMID: 36511279 PMCID: PMC9757843 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleh.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sleep difficulty is a recognized hallmark symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) yet often remains an enduring and neglected problem post-treatment. Around 4.4%- 88.0% of refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons report PTSD, of which 39%- 99% report sleep difficulties. These percentages substantially exceed those of the general population. Yet there has been a lack of research examining evidence-based stand-alone and add-on treatments for PTSD and related sleep disturbances among this population. Barriers to treatment encountered by this population often vary by their legal status or location, but generally include lack of access due to insufficient evidence-based treatments or mental health practitioner shortages, lack of psychoeducation on mental health, cultural stigma, language barriers, situational instability, and racial bias. The refugee population has been on the rise over the past 10 years, and the United Nations estimated the recent Ukraine-Russia conflict would lead to an additional 12 million people needing humanitarian assistance inside Ukraine and more than 6.9 million refugees fleeing to neighboring countries in the coming months. Given that refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons repeatedly encounter barriers to mental health care specific to their predicament, interventions designed to accommodate their situation are imperative for improving their sleep and mental health. We therefore call for there to be more research on integrative programs incorporating evidence-based treatments that allow for scalability, adaptability, and rapid dissemination to maximize impact in this population. Further, we encourage trainings among clinicians and researchers to increase knowledge and confidence in working with this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Edward F Pace-Schott
- Harvard Extension School, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA; Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA.
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Springer P, Franzen-Castle L, Gratopp E, Schmader B. What is a healthy community? Refugee youth’s perspective on freedom, safety, and trust: a photovoice project. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMIC THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/2692398x.2022.2135344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Springer
- Department of Child, Youth and Family Studies, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Lisa Franzen-Castle
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Emily Gratopp
- Lancaster County Extension, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Brenna Schmader
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
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Ibrahim H, Goessmann K, Neuner F. Sharing for relief: associations of trauma-focused interviews and well-being among war-affected displaced populations in the Middle East. ETHICS & BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/10508422.2022.2122466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hawkar Ibrahim
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Bielefeld University
| | - Katharina Goessmann
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Bielefeld University
| | - Frank Neuner
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Bielefeld University
- Vivo International, Konstanz, Germany
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van Eggermont Arwidson C, Holmgren J, Gottberg K, Tinghög P, Eriksson H. Living a frozen life: a qualitative study on asylum seekers' experiences and care practices at accommodation centers in Sweden. Confl Health 2022; 16:47. [PMID: 36071462 PMCID: PMC9450398 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00480-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Forced migrants fleeing conflict and violence face a high risk of mental health problems due to experiences before displacement, perilous journeys, and conditions in the new host societies. Asylum seekers seem to be in particularly vulnerable situations, indicated by higher prevalence rates of mental health problems compared to resettled refugees. Asylum seekers’ mental health is highly influenced by the conditions they face in host countries while awaiting a decision on their case. In Sweden, 40% of asylum seekers reside in state-provided accommodation centers during the asylum process. Collective accommodation centers for asylum seekers have been said to impose restrictive social conditions and to be associated with poorer mental health outcomes than other housing forms (e.g., self-organized housing). However, there seems to be a scarcity of qualitative studies exploring the experiences of asylum seekers in different contexts. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the experiences of asylum seekers and how they manage their mental wellbeing while living at accommodation centers in Sweden. Methods Fourteen semi-structured interviews with asylum seekers were conducted at two accommodation centers in Sweden. Participants were recruited using purposeful sampling and represented a diverse group of asylum seekers regarding age, background, and gender. The data was analyzed using content analysis. Results Three overarching categories were identified; 1) Frozen life, 2) Constant worrying and “overthinking”, and 3) Distractions and peer support. Participants experienced a state of being that could be characterized as a frozen life, which was associated with intense feelings of psychological distress, mostly described as manifesting itself in consuming patterns of ruminative thoughts, for instance overthinking and constant worrying. However, despite high levels of distress, participants demonstrated agency in managing negative mental health outcomes through self-care practices, peer support, and the development of care practices in caring for others in need. Conclusion This study offers new insights into the everyday challenges that asylum seekers at accommodation centers face. Furthermore, it offers valuable observations of how asylum seekers at accommodation centers cope through self-care practices, peer support, and care practices in caring for peers in need. In order to enable sustainable and empowering support, mental health and psychosocial support services must identify and address both challenges and strengths, be grounded in the lived reality of asylum seekers, and build on existing resources. Moreover, further policy work needs to be done to enable faster asylum processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotta van Eggermont Arwidson
- Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden. .,Department of Health Sciences, Swedish Red Cross University, Huddinge, Sweden.
| | - Jessica Holmgren
- School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gottberg
- Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Petter Tinghög
- Department of Health Sciences, Swedish Red Cross University, Huddinge, Sweden.,Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Henrik Eriksson
- Department of Health Sciences, University West, Trollhättan, Sweden
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Jolof L, Rocca P, Mazaheri M, Okenwa Emegwa L, Carlsson T. Experiences of armed conflicts and forced migration among women from countries in the Middle East, Balkans, and Africa: a systematic review of qualitative studies. Confl Health 2022; 16:46. [PMID: 36071504 PMCID: PMC9450290 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00481-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A significant proportion of the global population is displaced, many being women. Qualitative studies can generate in-depth findings that will contribute to an understanding of their experiences, but there is a need for further synthetization efforts. The aim was to provide a comprehensive perspective about adult women’s experiences of armed conflicts and forced migration, focusing on women in or from countries in the Middle East, Balkans, or Africa. Methods Systematic review of English reports presenting empirical qualitative studies published in scientific journals 1980 or later, utilizing searches performed in September 2021 within three databases combined with manual screening. Of the 3 800 records screened in total, 26 were included. Methodological details and quality were appraised using pre-specified extraction and appraisal tools. The findings within the included reports were analyzed with thematic analysis. Results Most reports utilized interviews, including in total 494 participants, and were appraised as having insignificant methodological limitations. The first theme concerns changed living conditions, involving reduced safety, insufficient access to resources meeting basic needs, forced migration as a last resort, and some positive effects. The second theme concerns the experienced health-related consequences, involving psychological distress, risks during pregnancy and childbirth, exposure to violence and discrimination as a woman, as well as a lack of adequate healthcare services and social support. The third theme concerns the resources and strategies that enhance resilience, involving social support and family life, as well as utilization of internal resources and strategies. Conclusion When experiencing armed conflicts and forced migration, women face significant challenges related to changed living conditions and are exposed to health-related consequences. Consistently, women are targets of severe structural and personal violence, while lacking access to even the most basic healthcare services. Despite facing considerable hardships, these women display extraordinary resilience and endurance by finding strength through social support and internal resources. Synthesized qualitative research illustrates that women value social support, including peer support, which is a promising intervention that needs to be evaluated in future experimental studies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13031-022-00481-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Jolof
- The Red Cross Treatment Center for Persons Affected By War and Torture, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Patricia Rocca
- The Red Cross Treatment Center for Persons Affected By War and Torture, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Monir Mazaheri
- Department of Nursing Science, Sophiahemmet University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences, and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Leah Okenwa Emegwa
- The Department of Health Sciences, The Swedish Red Cross University, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Tommy Carlsson
- The Department of Health Sciences, The Swedish Red Cross University, Huddinge, Sweden. .,The Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Due C, Walsh M, Aldam I, Winter A, Cooper S, Sheriff J, Ziersch A. Perinatal care for women with refugee backgrounds from African countries: a qualitative study of intersections with psychological wellbeing. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:628. [PMID: 35941567 PMCID: PMC9358632 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04957-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Experiences with healthcare services, including perinatal healthcare services, contribute to psychological wellbeing for refugees post-resettlement. To address the paucity of literature examining the relationship between perinatal healthcare and psychological wellbeing in women with refugee backgrounds from African countries this study aimed to: (1) understand the relationship between psychological wellbeing and perinatal care amongst this population, and; (2) identify areas for improved perinatal healthcare services to ensure positive wellbeing outcomes in this population. Methods A total of 39 participants were included in the study. Nineteen women from seven African countries participated in interviews – seven both prior to and after having their babies, two only while pregnant and ten only after their baby had been born. In addition, interviews were conducted with 20 service providers. Interviews were thematically analysed. Results Four key themes were identified, covering continuity of care, cultural safety of care, agency in decision making, and ongoing impacts of perinatal care experiences. Conclusions The results highlighted the need for changes to perinatal healthcare provision at the systems level, including implementing a continuity of care model, and ensuring women’s access to individualised, trauma-informed perinatal services which attend to the cultural and psychosocial resettlement needs of this population. These findings informed recommendations for improving perinatal healthcare services and better psychological outcomes – and in turn broader health outcomes – for African-background refugee mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemence Due
- The School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia. .,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Moira Walsh
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Isadora Aldam
- The School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Amelia Winter
- The School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Susan Cooper
- Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Josephine Sheriff
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Anna Ziersch
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Feyissa IF, Noh Y, Yoon MS. Post-Migration Life Adversity and Mental Health of Refugees and Asylum Seekers: The Mediating Role of Resilience between Perceived Discrimination, Socio-Economic Strains, Structural Strains, and Mental Health. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:bs12070208. [PMID: 35877278 PMCID: PMC9311976 DOI: 10.3390/bs12070208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study made a claim that perceived discrimination, socio-economic strain, and structural strain on displaced people have an adverse impact on their mental health. Our claim also acknowledges that these people potentially have a unique set of strengths and abilities that they rely on to overcome their immediate and future problems. The aim of this study is thus to examine the relationship between post-migration life adversity and mental health problems, and assess the potential mediating role of resilience among asylum seekers and refugees (219 asylum seekers and 42 recognized refugees) living in South Korea. Structural equation modelling was used to examine hypothesized pathways between post-migration life adversity, mental health and resilience. Fit indices showed adequate to excellent fit of the examined models with mental health as the outcome. Mental health was positively regressed on PMLA and negatively regressed on R. In addition, R partially mediated the association between PMLA and MH. In addition to providing the academic contributions of this study to the ongoing study of resilience and its social welfare implications, the result of the study indicated the necessity of improving the present and future socio-environmental factors that foster resilience among refugees and asylum seekers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israel Fisseha Feyissa
- School of Global Studies, Global Migration Research Canter, Kyungsung University, Busan 48434, Korea; or
| | - Yeop Noh
- Department of Social Welfare, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea;
| | - Myeong Sook Yoon
- Department of Social Welfare, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea;
- Correspondence:
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Long-term effectiveness of Self-Help Plus in refugees and asylum seekers resettled in Western Europe: 12-month outcomes of a randomised controlled trial. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2022; 31:e39. [PMID: 35674122 PMCID: PMC9220789 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796022000269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS As refugees and asylum seekers are at high risk of developing mental disorders, we assessed the effectiveness of Self-Help Plus (SH + ), a psychological intervention developed by the World Health Organization, in reducing the risk of developing any mental disorders at 12-month follow-up in refugees and asylum seekers resettled in Western Europe. METHODS Refugees and asylum seekers with psychological distress (General Health Questionnaire-12 ⩾ 3) but without a mental disorder according to the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) were randomised to either SH + or enhanced treatment as usual (ETAU). The frequency of mental disorders at 12 months was measured with the M.I.N.I., while secondary outcomes included self-identified problems, psychological symptoms and other outcomes. RESULTS Of 459 participants randomly assigned to SH + or ETAU, 246 accepted to be interviewed at 12 months. No difference in the frequency of any mental disorders was found (relative risk [RR] = 0.841; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.389-1.819; p-value = 0.659). In the per protocol (PP) population, that is in participants attending at least three group-based sessions, SH + almost halved the frequency of mental disorders at 12 months compared to ETAU, however so few participants and events contributed to this analysis that it yielded a non-significant result (RR = 0.528; 95% CI 0.180-1.544; p-value = 0.230). SH + was associated with improvements at 12 months in psychological distress (p-value = 0.004), depressive symptoms (p-value = 0.011) and wellbeing (p-value = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The present study failed to show any long-term preventative effect of SH + in refugees and asylum seekers resettled in Western European countries. Analysis of the PP population and of secondary outcomes provided signals of a potential effect of SH + in the long-term, which would suggest the value of exploring the effects of booster sessions and strategies to increase SH + adherence.
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Tay AK, Carlsson J. Psychosocial treatment outcomes of common mental disorders vary widely in persons in low- and middle-income countries affected by humanitarian crises and refugees in high-income countries. BJPsych Open 2022; 8:e100. [PMID: 35642349 PMCID: PMC9230631 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2022.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This commentary discusses methodological and contextual factors that might account for variations in psychosocial treatment outcomes found in persons in low- and middle-income countries affected by humanitarian crises and refugees. Factors discussed are related to cultural adaptations, content and intensity of treatment, population characteristics and factors related to research design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvin Kuowei Tay
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jessica Carlsson
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Mental Health Services of the Capital Region of Denmark, Denmark; and Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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Knefel M, Kantor V, Weindl D, Schiess-Jokanovic J, Nicholson AA, Verginer L, Schäfer I, Lueger-Schuster B. Mental health professionals' perspective on a brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention for Afghan asylum seekers and refugees. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2068913. [PMID: 35695861 PMCID: PMC9176353 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2022.2068913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While many elaborated treatment protocols focus on post-traumatic stress symptoms, a large number of refugees suffer from a range of mental health problems. Thus, brief and transdiagnostic psychological interventions may be helpful first interventions for help-seeking refugees and asylum seekers in a stepped-care approach. Critically, there is limited research on how transdiagnostic interventions are received in general practice in non-specialized mental healthcare settings in high-income countries, where often only mental health professionals (MHPs) are legally allowed to treat people with mental disorders. MHPs may thus deliver such interventions, but their perspective towards them has not yet been investigated. Objective We aimed to investigate MHPs' perception of the usability of adapted Problem Management Plus (aPM+), a brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention for refugees, which we adapted to address distress caused by post-migration living difficulties (PMLDs). Method Employing an e-learning tool, we introduced the aPM+ intervention to 59 MHPs and assessed their perspective towards the intervention. We then used an inductive approach to analyse their perspective towards the intervention with open-ended questions. Results Altogether, 59 MHPs enrolled in the webinar and 29 provided feedback on the intervention. MHPs had a positive view on the intervention but emphasized the importance of situation-specific adaptations to the structure of the manual. The most favoured specific strategies were 'managing stress/slow-breathing', the 'tree of capabilities', and the 'riding the anger' exercise. The last two were additionally developed to reduce distress caused by PMLDs by either enhancing self-efficacy or reducing anger regulation difficulties. Conclusions An adaptation to aPM+ regarding more flexibility of the manual may enhance the likelihood of MHPs implementing the intervention in their daily practice. Strategies addressing coping with PMLDs could be particularly helpful.Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register identifier: DRKS00016538. HIGHLIGHTS Mental health professionals had a positive view on a brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention for refugees but emphasized the importance of situation-specific adaptations to the structure of the manual.Low -intensity interventions may be useful not only in low- and middle-income countries but also in high-income countries as part of a stepped-care approach, even if distributed by MHPs instead of trained laypersons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Knefel
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Viktoria Kantor
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dina Weindl
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Andrew A. Nicholson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Lucia Verginer
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Knefel M, Kantor V, Weindl D, Schiess-Jokanovic J, Nicholson AA, Verginer L, Schäfer I, Lueger-Schuster B. A brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention for Afghan asylum seekers and refugees in Austria: a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2068911. [PMID: 35957634 PMCID: PMC9359165 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2022.2068911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Afghan refugees often face hardship and traumatic experiences before, during, and after migration and frequently suffer from mental health burdens. Evidence based psychological treatments for refugees mostly focus on symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), however, refugees often suffer from a variety of general health problems as well as depression and anxiety. We thus aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a transdiagnostic psychological intervention. Objective To investigate the effectiveness of an adapted version of Problem Management Plus (aPM+) delivered by mental health professionals to adult Afghan refugees and asylum seekers. Methods We randomly allocated 88 Afghan refugees either to aPM+ in addition to treatment as usual (aPM+/TAU) or TAU alone. APM+ comprises of six weekly 90-minute individual sessions including strategies of stress management, problem solving, behavioural activation, strengthening social support and either anger regulation or increasing self-efficacy. The primary outcome was general health (GHQ-28) post intervention. Secondary outcome measures included distress by PMLD, Complex PTSD symptoms, quality of life, self-identified problems, and integration. Results Attrition was high: 42% of the randomized participants did not participate in the post-treatment assessment. A repeated measures per-protocol (completers only) ANCOVA evidenced a significant group × timepoint interaction for GHQ total scores [F(1, 47) = 14.80, p < .001, partial η2 = 0.24]. Post-hoc analyses showed significantly lower symptoms in the aPM+/TAU arm (n = 26) as compared to the TAU arm (n = 25) for the GHQ total scores (dz = 1.04). Most secondary outcomes significantly improved in the aPM+/TAU arm, but not in the TAU arm. Conclusion APM+ was effective in reducing general health problems in Afghan refugees and might be considered as a first-line intervention. High drop-out rate limit the interpretations of our results, where future investigations should focus on possibilities to reduce these rates.Trial registration: Uniform Trial Number identifier: U1111-1226-3285. HIGHLIGHTS Refugees' mental health can be strengthened with a brief psychological intervention that also focuses on skills in the context of post-migration stressors.High drop-out rates are a major challenge for future research and delivery of psychological interventions as part of health care systems to refugees and asylum seekers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Knefel
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Viktoria Kantor
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dina Weindl
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Andrew A. Nicholson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Lucia Verginer
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Reißmann S, Flothow A, Harth V, Mache S. Exploring job demands and resources in psychotherapists treating displaced people-A scoping review. Psychother Res 2022; 32:1076-1089. [PMID: 35544460 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2022.2071653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Little is known about the occupational health of psychotherapists treating displaced people. Therefore, the literature was explored regarding job demands, job resources, as well as work- and health-related outcomes. The Job Demands-Job Resources model (JD-R model) according to Bakker and Demerouti served as theoretical framework. Method: This scoping review followed the methodological framework provided by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Six databases were searched for qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies. Results: Based on 15 included articles, the emotional impact of work, cultural or language barriers, and administrative obstacles were identified as major job demands. Important job resources were related to a politicized conceptualization of the professional identity. Health-related outcomes could mainly be ascribed to empathy-based strain, while work-related outcomes were associated with discrepancies between personal values and asylum regulations. Conclusion: Despite the emotional impact of work, psychotherapists seem to benefit from work engagement arising out of socio-political conviction and the ability to help suffering people. Practitioners need more environmental support like professional networks. Further research is required, as current findings are predominantly based on qualitative and cross-sectional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Reißmann
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Annegret Flothow
- Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW Hamburg), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Volker Harth
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Mache
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Park AL, Waldmann T, Kösters M, Tedeschi F, Nosè M, Ostuzzi G, Purgato M, Turrini G, Välimäki M, Lantta T, Anttila M, Wancata J, Friedrich F, Acartürk C, İlkkursun Z, Uygun E, Eskici S, Cuijpers P, Sijbrandij M, White RG, Popa M, Carswell K, Au T, Kilian R, Barbui C. Cost-effectiveness of the Self-Help Plus Intervention for Adult Syrian Refugees Hosted in Turkey. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2211489. [PMID: 35536574 PMCID: PMC9092202 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.11489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance The cost-effectiveness of the Self-Help Plus (SH+) program, a group-based, guided, self-help psychological intervention developed by the World Health Organization for people affected by adversity, is unclear. Objective To investigate the cost-utility of providing the SH+ intervention combined with enhanced usual care vs enhanced usual care alone for Syrian refugees or asylum seekers hosted in Turkey. Design, Setting, and Participants This economic evaluation was performed as a prespecified part of an assessor-blinded randomized clinical trial conducted between October 1, 2018, and November 30, 2019, with 6-month follow-up. A total of 627 adults with psychological distress but no diagnosed psychiatric disorder were randomly assigned to the intervention group or the enhanced usual care group. Interventions The SH+ program was a 5-session (2 hours each), group-based, stress management course in which participants learned self-help skills for managing stress by listening to audio sessions. The SH+ sessions were facilitated by briefly trained, nonspecialist individuals, and an illustrated book was provided to group members. Th intervention group received the SH+ intervention plus enhanced usual care; the control group received only enhanced usual care from the local health care system. Enhanced usual care included access to free health care services provided by primary and secondary institutions plus details on nongovernmental organizations and freely available mental health services, social services, and community networks for people under temporary protection of Turkey and refugees. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome measure was incremental cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained from the perspective of the Turkish health care system. An intention-to-treat analysis was used including all participants who were randomized and for whom baseline data on costs and QALYs were available. Data were analyzed September 30, 2020, to July 30, 2021. Results Of 627 participants (mean [SD] age, 31.3 [9.0] years; 393 [62.9%] women), 313 were included in the analysis for the SH+ group and 314 in the analysis for the enhanced usual care group. An incremental cost-utility ratio estimate of T£6068 ($1147) per QALY gained was found when the SH+ intervention was provided to groups of 10 Syrian refugees. At a willingness to pay per QALY gained of T£14 831 ($2802), the SH+ intervention had a 97.5% chance of being cost-effective compared with enhanced usual care alone. Conclusions and Relevance This economic evaluation suggests that implementation of the SH+ intervention compared with enhanced usual care alone for adult Syrian refugees or asylum seekers hosted in Turkey is cost-effective from the perspective of the Turkish health care system when both international and country-specific willingness-to-pay thresholds were applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-La Park
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, University of Ulm and BKH Günzburg, Ulm, Germany
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tamara Waldmann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, University of Ulm and BKH Günzburg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus Kösters
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, University of Ulm and BKH Günzburg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Federico Tedeschi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michela Nosè
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ostuzzi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Purgato
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Turrini
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maritta Välimäki
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Finland
- School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha Hunan, China
| | - Tella Lantta
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Minna Anttila
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Johannes Wancata
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna Austria
| | - Fabian Friedrich
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna Austria
| | - Ceren Acartürk
- Department of Psychology, Koc University, Sariyer, Istanbul,Turkey
| | - Zeynep İlkkursun
- Department of Psychology, Koc University, Sariyer, Istanbul,Turkey
| | - Ersin Uygun
- Trauma and Disaster Mental Health, Istanbul Bilgi University, Eyüpsultan/Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevde Eskici
- Department of Psychology, Istanbul Koc University, Sariyer, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ross G. White
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Mariana Popa
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kenneth Carswell
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Teresa Au
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Reinhold Kilian
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, University of Ulm and BKH Günzburg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Mesa-Vieira C, Haas AD, Buitrago-Garcia D, Roa-Diaz ZM, Minder B, Gamba M, Salvador D, Gomez D, Lewis M, Gonzalez-Jaramillo WC, Pahud de Mortanges A, Buttia C, Muka T, Trujillo N, Franco OH. Mental health of migrants with pre-migration exposure to armed conflict: a systematic review and meta-analysis. THE LANCET PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 7:e469-e481. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(22)00061-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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Epidemiology of depression among displaced people: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2022; 311:114493. [PMID: 35316692 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Displaced people are prone to develop mental health problems due to resettlement in new environments, traumatic events and forced migration. Depression is a mental health problem repeatedly observed among displaced people such as refugees, migrants, asylum seekers and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Therefore, estimating the global pooled prevalence of depression as well as pinpointing its determinants may support policymakers and health care workers to mitigate the disease burden and improve the psychological well-being of displaced people. METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHIL, Psych-INFO, and SCOPUS databases were searched for English written relevant observational studies conducted between 1984 and 2020. The methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). Heterogeneity across studies was checked using the Q- and I2 test. Publication bias was checked by observing Funnel plot symmetry and using Egger's regression test. STATA 16 was used to combine studies using a random effect model. RESULTS Of the 4102 studies identified, 81 studies with an overall sample size of 53,458 were included in the current systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence estimate of depression among displaced people was 26.4% (95% CI; 22.2-31.1). Also, three in five IDPs, one in three refugees and asylum seekers and one in four migrants suffer from depression globally. Being female migrant [AOR: 2.46 95% CI: 1.79-3.13, I2=34.5%), non-partnered marital status [AOR: 2.29, 95% CI: 1.29-3.30, I2= 0.00%], and perceived low social support [AOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.00-2.52, I2=34.6%] were significant determinants of depression among displaced people. CONCLUSION Overall, around 1 in 4 displaced people suffer from depression and exceed the prevalence of depression reported by community samples in different nations and demonstrate a need for culturally fitting and targeted responses from migrant/refugee host nations and their serving clinicians.
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Comparing Western symptoms of depression with Arabic idioms of distress: A qualitative study. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-020-00829-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Schiess-Jokanovic J, Knefel M, Kantor V, Weindl D, Schäfer I, Lueger-Schuster B. The boundaries between complex posttraumatic stress disorder symptom clusters and post-migration living difficulties in traumatised Afghan refugees: a network analysis. Confl Health 2022; 16:19. [PMID: 35477465 PMCID: PMC9043511 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00455-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychological distress due to the ongoing war, violence, and persecution is particularly common among Afghan asylum seekers and refugees. In addition, individuals face a variety of post-migration living difficulties (PMLDs). Complex posttraumatic stress symptoms are among the most common mental health problems in this population, and were associated with the overall burden of PMLDs. The complex interplay of posttraumatic symptoms has been investigated from a network perspective in previous studies. However, individuals are embedded in and constantly react to the environment, which makes it important to include external factors in network models to better understand the etiology and maintaining factors of posttraumatic mental health problems. PMLDs are a major risk factor for posttraumatic distress and considering their impact in interventions might improve response rates. However, the interaction of these external factors with posttraumatic psychopathological distress is not yet fully understood. Thus, we aimed to illuminate the complex interaction between PMLDs and CPTSD symptom clusters. OBJECTIVE The main objective is the exploration of the network structure and the complex interplay of ICD-11 CPTSD symptom clusters and distinct forms of PMLDs. METHOD The symptom clusters of CPTSD and PMLDs were collected within a randomised controlled trial among 93 treatment-seeking Afghan asylum seekers and refugees via a fully structured face-to-face and interpreter assisted interview. Using a network analytical approach, we explored the complex associations and network centrality of the CPTSD symptom clusters and the PMLD factors: discrimination & socio-economical living conditions, language acquisition & barriers, family concerns, and residence insecurity. RESULTS The results suggest direct links within and between the constructs (CPTSD, PMLD). Almost all PMLD factors were interrelated and associated to CPTSD, family concerns was the only isolated variable. The CPTSD symptom cluster re-experiencing and the PMLD factor language acquisition & barriers connected the two constructs. Affective dysregulation had the highest and avoidance the lowest centrality. CONCLUSIONS Re-experiencing and affective dysregulation have the strongest ties to PMLDs. Thus, these domains might explain the strong association of posttraumatic psychopathology with PLMDs and, consequently, prioritization of these domains in treatment approaches might both facilitate treatment response and reduce burden caused by PMLDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Schiess-Jokanovic
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, 1010, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Matthias Knefel
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, 1010, Vienna, Austria
| | - Viktoria Kantor
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, 1010, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dina Weindl
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, 1010, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Brigitte Lueger-Schuster
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1, 1010, Vienna, Austria
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Feinstein D. Uses of Energy Psychology Following Catastrophic Events. Front Psychol 2022; 13:856209. [PMID: 35548526 PMCID: PMC9084314 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.856209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Energy psychology, as most widely practiced, integrates the manual stimulation of acupuncture points with imaginal exposure, cognitive restructuring, and other evidence-based psychotherapeutic procedures. Efficacy for energy psychology protocols has been established in more than 120 clinical trials, with meta-analyses showing strong effect sizes for PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The approach has been applied in the wake of natural and human-made disasters in more than 30 countries. Four tiers of energy psychology interventions following the establishment of safety, trust, and rapport are described, including (1) immediate relief/stabilization, (2) reducing limbic arousal to trauma-based triggers, (3) overcoming complex psychological difficulties, and (4) promoting optimal functioning. The first tier is most pertinent in psychological first aid immediately following a disaster, with the subsequent tiers progressively being introduced over time with complex stress reactions and chronic disorders. Advantages of adding the stimulation of acupuncture points to a conventional exposure approach are identified, and challenges around cultural sensitivities and unintended effects are discussed. After establishing a framework for introducing energy psychology in disaster relief efforts, reports from a sampling of settings are presented, based on interviews with this paper's author. These include accounts of relief work with survivors of mass shootings, genocide, ethnic warfare, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Hundreds of other reports from the field show a pattern of strong outcomes following the use of energy psychology in the days or weeks after a disaster and in the subsequent treatment of trauma-based psychological problems. Many of these accounts corroborate one another in terms of rapid relief and long-term benefits. Finally, examples of more efficient delivery methods utilizing large groups, lay counselors, digital technology, and cultivating community resilience are presented.
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Barbui C, Purgato M, Acarturk C, Churchill R, Cuijpers P, Koesters M, Sijbrandij M, Välimäki M, Wancata J, White RG. Preventing the mental health consequences of war in refugee populations. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2022; 31:e24. [PMID: 35438061 PMCID: PMC9069581 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796022000154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The refugee experience is associated with several potentially traumatic events that increase the risk of developing mental health consequences, including worsening of subjective wellbeing and quality of life, and risk of developing mental disorders. Here we present actions that countries hosting forcibly displaced refugees may implement to decrease exposure to potentially traumatic stressors, enhance subjective wellbeing and prevent the onset of mental disorders. A first set of actions refers to the development of reception conditions aiming to decrease exposure to post-migration stressors, and a second set of actions refers to the implementation of evidence-based psychological interventions aimed at reducing stress, preventing the development of mental disorders and enhancing subjective wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Purgato
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Ceren Acarturk
- Department of Psychology, College of Social Sciences and Humanities, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro, and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro, and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maritta Välimäki
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Johannes Wancata
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ross G. White
- School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
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