scholarly journals UNTANGLING THE NEEDS OF REFUGEES IN MALAYSIA: THE WAY FORWARD

2022 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 196-220
Author(s):  
Atika Shafinaz Nazri ◽  
Kartini Aboo Talib@Khalid ◽  
Nidzam Sulaiman ◽  
Mary Ellen Gidah
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Humanitarian Assistance ◽  
Qualitative Approach ◽  
Living Standards ◽  
Syrian Refugees ◽  
Kuala Lumpur ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Language Classes ◽  
The Way

Background and Purpose: NGOs have become the most vital actors in meeting refugees’ needs in Malaysia; alas, most of these concerns cover basic needs such as food, health care, and education. In this regard, this study investigates other forms of NGOs assistance that ought to be provided to Malaysia's refugee communities to enhance living standards.   Methodology: This study employs a qualitative approach consisting of semi-structured interviews with Somalian, Rohingya, Pakistani and Syrian refugees. Data were collected during observation trips in Penang, Kedah, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor to comprehensively understand these diasporic communities, notably regarding the challenges refugees face in Malaysia.   Findings: The data indicated that refugee communities are significantly in need of proper and accessible channels through which they might share their grievances, temporary shelters, mental health care, and language classes. The team concluded that these forms of assistance ought to be made available to all refugee communities in Malaysia. Without such forms of assistance from NGOs, refugees' lived realities are made invariably more difficult; this is in addition to their vulnerability to forces that threaten their security.   Contributions: This paper provides insights into the needs of refugees in Malaysia based on interviews and observations conducted with them. Based on the findings, this research provides recommendations to NGOs to ameliorate life necessities for refugee communities.   Keywords: Humanitarian assistance, Malaysia, NGOs, refugees, UNHCR.   Cite as: Nazri, A. S., Talib@Khalid, K. A., Sulaiman, N., & Gidah, M. E. (2022). Untangling the needs of refugees in Malaysia: The way forward.  Journal of Nusantara Studies, 7(1), 196-220. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol7iss1pp196-220

Suicidal ideation in an ethnically mixed, highland Guatemalan community

2021 ◽  
pp. 136346152097693
Author(s):  
Carla Pezzia ◽  
Luisa M. Hernandez
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Ethnic Identity ◽  
Suicidal Ideation ◽  
Mental Health Care ◽  
Protective Factor ◽  
Indigenous Populations ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
And Gender ◽  
Survey Responses

Reported suicide rates in Latin America remain low, but there is evidence to suggest they may be increasing, particularly among indigenous populations. To better understand who may be at risk for suicide, we examined the prevalence of suicidal ideation and explored factors contributing to suicidal thoughts in an ethnically mixed, highland Guatemalan community. The data presented in this article are from a mixed methods ethnographic field project conducted over 15 months from 2010 to 2011 in Panajachel, Guatemala. We surveyed a random sample of 350 community members. Survey questions included standardized modules from the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview, as well as questions on experiences of violence and mental health care. We also conducted semi-structured interviews with 13 self-selected survey participants with current suicidal ideation. These interviews included questions regarding survey responses, experiences of mental illness, and access to mental health care. A total of 55 survey participants (N = 350; 15.7%) scored positive for suicidality. Ethnic identity, gender, psychiatric illness, and experiences of violence were all correlated to suicidal ideation. Qualitative interview data highlight distinctions between genders within prominent themes of religion, family, experiences of violence, and seeking resources. Three key findings emerged from our research that are relevant to the literature: 1) ethnic identity may be both a critical risk and a protective factor for suicide in some indigenous people; 2) intersections between violence and gender highlight different patterns in suicidal ideation; and 3) high rates of suicidal ideation and other psychiatric comorbidities underscore the need for greater access to mental health services.

scholarly journals Mental Health Self-Stigma of Syrian Refugees With Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms: Investigating Sociodemographic and Psychopathological Correlates

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jonathan Bär ◽  
Alexander Pabst ◽  
Susanne Röhr ◽  
Melanie Luppa ◽  
Anna Renner ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Mental Health Care ◽  
Posttraumatic Stress ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Linear Regression Analysis ◽  
Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms ◽  
Syrian Refugees ◽  
Internalized Stigma ◽  
Stress Symptoms

Background: The high prevalence of mental disorders related to posttraumatic stress among Syrian refugees is often in contrast with their low utilization of mental health care in the host countries. Mental health self-stigma, i.e., internalized stigma of having a mental disorder, could prevent individuals from seeking mental health care. Therefore, we aimed to provide evidence on different aspects of mental health self-stigmatization among adult Syrian refugees with posttraumatic stress symptoms residing in Germany. Moreover, we investigated associations with sociodemographic and psychopathological variables in order to identify those at higher risk of self-stigmatization.Material and Methods: Overall, 133 participants with mild to moderate posttraumatic stress symptoms were recruited in the metropolitan areas of Leipzig, Dresden and Halle, Germany, using a multimodal approach. Mental health self-stigma was assessed using the Self-Stigma of Mental Illness Scale – Short Form (SSMIS-SF), consisting of four subscales (Stereotype awareness, Stereotype agreement, Application to self , Harm to self-esteem), each scoring from 5 (low) to 45 (high) points. Linear regression analysis was used to test associations of sociodemographic and psychopathological variables with self-stigma subscales.Results: On average, self-stigma ratings ranged from 16.5 (SD = 6.6) points on Application to self to 28.3 (SD = 7.5) points on Stereotype awareness. Results showed higher scores on Application to self for individuals who were younger (t = 2.65, p = 0.009) and single (F = 5.70, p = 0.004). Regression analyses yielded statistically significant associations between having multiple comorbidities and a higher Application to self stigma (β = 0.18, p = 0.044), controlling for sociodemographic covariates.Discussion: Mental health self-stigma was increased among Syrian refugees in Germany. Correlates of increased self-stigma could inform efforts to improve access to mental health care among Syrian refugees with mental ill-health. Longitudinal studies following an intersectional approach by concurrently examining multiple forms of public and internalized stigma could provide helpful insights for developing tailored stigma reduction efforts in this context.

The determination of data collection tools that can measure and document the cooperation of local health care providers

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Beáta Erika Nagy ◽  
Róza Oláh ◽  
Erika Zombor ◽  
Péter Boris ◽  
Anna Szabina Szele
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Health Care Providers ◽  
Health Improvement ◽  
Local Health ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Daily Work ◽  
Local Health Care ◽  
Institutional Relations

Abstract Background The overall objective of the study is to improve the mental health of the age group below 18 years through the investigation of the intra-and inter-sectoral cooperation between local suppliers and to make the intensity and quality of collaborations measurable. In this paper, based on Hungarian and international literature, we aim at describing the current and future optimal cooperation between the members of the mental health care system and examine the possibilities for documenting and measuring cooperation. Methods Semi-structured interviews were recorded with the leaders or representatives of 12 public educational institutions, six social and six health institutions involvement of the relevant experts (N = 24). Results The function of the institutions belonging to these systems, as well as the daily work of the professionals working there, have a significant impact on the mental health of children in either positive or negative directions. After exploring the current situation, the cooperation of local suppliers and inter-institutional relations can highly increase the mental health improvement of the youth. Conclusion According to the results, the developing progress can be more effective through organising the different forms of care, sectors and professionals together to achieve a common goal.

Contested Statehood

2021 ◽  
pp. 13-32
Author(s):  
Omar Dewachi ◽  
Fouad Gehad Marei ◽  
Jonathan Whittall
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Humanitarian Assistance ◽  
The State ◽  
Humanitarian Organizations ◽  
History Of ◽  
The Way

This chapter outlines how the history of health care in Syria has shaped the way in which wartime health care has been delivered and controlled. The chapter analyzes the claim by humanitarian organizations to a form of neutrality in the Syrian war, which was ultimately incompatible with the way the Syrian state and the opposition saw aid delivery as part of the battle for statehood. It also mentions how service providers to areas controlled by the opposition were seen by the Syrian government as complicit in directly challenging the legitimacy of the state. The chapter looks at opposition groups that co-opted humanitarian assistance to enforce their own legitimacy to the population.

scholarly journals Treatment gap and mental health service use among Syrian refugees in Turkey

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (Supplement_4) ◽  
Author(s):  
D C Fuhr ◽  
C Ataturk ◽  
M McGrath ◽  
Z Ilkkursun ◽  
A Woodward ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Mental Health Care ◽  
Service Use ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Mental Health Service Use ◽  
Continuing Care ◽  
Syrian Refugees ◽  
Depression And Anxiety ◽  
Treatment Gap

Abstract Introduction Turkey hosts the highest number of Syrian refugees in Europe. Refugees are often vulnerable to situational forms of psychosocial distress as a consequence of exposure to war and violence which may result in more profound mental health problems if no treatment is sought. The aim of this study is to report evidence on mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) needs, access and barriers to MHPSS care among Syrians refugees living in Istanbul, Turkey. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among Syrian refugees aged 18 years or over in Istanbul (Sultanbeyli) between February and May 2018. Data among 1’678 Syrian refugees were collected on mental health outcomes using the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist (PCL-5) and the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist (HSCL-25) for depression and anxiety. We also collected data on health care utilization, barriers to seeking and continuing care as well as knowledge and attitudes towards mental health. Descriptive analyses were used. Results The prevalence of PTSD, depression and anxiety was 19.6%, 34.7% and 36.1% respectively. The treatment gap was 89% for PTSD, 90% for anxiety and 88% for depression. 249 respondents (15%) screened positive for either PTSD, depression or anxiety in our survey and self-reported emotional/behavioural problems since arriving in Sultanbeyli. Several structural and attitudinal barriers for not seeking care were reported. Conclusions To overcome the treatment gap, mental health care programmes need to be more responsive to the needs of Syrian refugees. Barriers to seeking and continuing care can be overcome by providing MHPSS services in the community which facilitate access to care. Community-based programmes of care should be supported by activities which increase awareness about mental health issues and tackle negative attitudes towards mental illness. Key messages This study provides the first nationally representative data on the mental health of Syrian refugees in Turkey, and shows that refugees have high mental health needs. Syrian refugees do not seek mental health care despite availability of mental health services in the community.

scholarly journals Adolescents with mental disorders while serving time and being subjected to socio-educative measures

2014 ◽  
Vol 19 (3) ◽  
pp. 891-898 ◽  
Author(s):  
Natália Pereira Gonçalves Vilarins
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Mental Disorders ◽  
Mental Health Care ◽  
Participant Observation ◽  
Federal District ◽  
Adolescent Offenders ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Research Committee ◽  
Ethics Research

This article examines how adolescent offenders with mental disorders are treated by socio-educative internment treatment. These adolescents come under the aegis of medicine and justice in a contradictory relationship between full protection, vulnerability of a developing person with a mental disorder and a juvenile delinquency offense. In this respect, the legal punishment prevails to the detriment of health care. After approval of the research project by an Ethics Research Committee, field research was conducted in the Youth Detention Unit of the Pilot Plan of the Brazilian Federal District. Data were collected through research of documents involving 35 medical records of adolescent users of psychotropic drugs in 2010, as well as participant observation and semi-structured interviews with professionals from the Youth Detention Unit and adolescent judiciary. In the review of the care provided to adolescent offenders with mental disorders under the childhood and youth policy and the mental health policy, it was revealed that the mental health care provided in the Youth Detention Unit or in the external mental health care services involved the prescription of medication.

“Hear me out”: Experiences of mothers suffering from severe mental illness with health care providers – A qualitative perspective

2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (S1) ◽  
pp. s899-s899 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. Banerjee ◽  
G. Desai ◽  
P.S. Chandra
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Mental Illness ◽  
Severe Mental Illness ◽  
Health Care Providers ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Seeking Help ◽  
Competing Interest

BackgroundContrary to popular myth, majority of mentally ill women are mothers with increasing number of them seeking help. Little is known about their own experiences in this regard and the extent to which their needs are met.ObjectivesTo assess the barriers and facilitators in seeking help from mental health care providers in matters of pregnancy and parenting.MethodsThe study used qualitative design with social constructivist paradigm. A purposive sample of 30 mothers with severe mental illness was obtained. Data was collected through one-to-one in-depth semi-structured interviews. After verbatim transcription, inductive thematic analysis was used to explore transcripts.ResultsMost women considered motherhood “central” to their lives and almost all of them experienced the burden of the “dual role”. Main barriers in seeking help were stigma, treatment side effects, wrong information and time constraints. Whereas self-advocacy, early engagement, education of women and involvement of the family with service providers were the facilitating factors. The prime expectations of the mothers as identified were early and direct communication, patient audience and basic guidance in regards to child health and parenting issues.ConclusionWomen who are mothers and also users of mental health services face special challenges in managing the contradictory aspects of their dual identity. Hearing their voices are essential for service provision and ensuring adequate mental health needs. Early and direct intervention along with understanding and addressing critical areas are necessary for proper care of both the mother and child.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Syrian Refugees in Canada: Clinical Experience in Mental Health Care

2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (S1) ◽  
pp. S620-S620
Author(s):  
K. Bazaid
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Mental Health Care ◽  
Well Being ◽  
World Health ◽  
Idioms Of Distress ◽  
Syrian Refugees ◽  
Competing Interest ◽  
And Migration ◽  
Health Organization

War is the most serious of all threats to health (World Health Organization, 1982) and can have severe and lasting impacts on mental health. Forced displacement and migration generate risks to mental well-being, which can result in psychiatric illness. Yet, the majority of refugees do not develop psychopathology. Rather, they demonstrate resilience in the face of tremendous adversity. The influx of Syrian refugees to Canada poses challenges to the health care system. We will present our experience to date in the Ottawa region, including a multisector collaborative effort to provide settlement and health services to newly arriving refugees from the Middle East and elsewhere. The workshop will be brought to life by engaging with clinical cases and public health scenarios that present real world clinical challenges to the provision of mental health care for refugees.Objectives(1) Understand the predicament of refugees including risks to mental health, coping strategies and mental health consequences, (2) know the evidence for the emergence of mental illness in refugees and the effectiveness of multi-level interventions, (3) become familiar with published guidelines and gain a working knowledge of assessment and management of psychiatric conditions in refugee populations and cultural idioms of distress.How will the participants receive feedback about their learning? Participants will have direct feedback through answers to questions. The authors welcome subsequent communication by email. Presenters can give attendants handouts on pertinent and concise information linked to the workshop.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Have the Invisible Children Become Visible?

1993 ◽  
Vol 38 (10) ◽  
pp. 678-680 ◽  
Author(s):  
James Vanharen ◽  
Catherine Laroche ◽  
Marsha Heyman ◽  
Albert Massabki ◽  
Lois Colle
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Pilot Study ◽  
High Risk ◽  
Health Services ◽  
Psychological Health ◽  
Psychiatric Illness ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
School Aged Children ◽  
The Past

Over the past 30 years much information has been collected on children whose parents suffer from psychiatric illness. Research has shown that many of these children are at high risk for significant psychopathology but there have been few investigations examining whether or not they are being identified and are receiving mental health care. The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate to what extent the children of psychiatrically ill adult patients are identified and referred to the mental health services. Results of structured interviews with the patients indicate that a considerable number had school-aged children and that in many instances no inquiry had been made concerning the children's psychological health. Although some of the children were reported to have received treatment, few had been referred by their parents’ psychiatrists. Recommendations to improve the identification and treatment of such children are outlined in this study.

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