What can we learn from unaccompanied refugee adolescents ’ perspectives on mental health care in exile?

Conclusion: To enhance the complex mental health needs of unaccompanied minors ’ mental healthcare, the perspective of the refugee adolescents should be taken into account. This calls for a holistic approach to mental healthcare in their daily lives, where they are met in a non-stigmatising manner in which their unique capabilities are the main focus. Moreover, a trusting re lationship constitutes the fundament to support good mental health among refugee adolescents.What is Known:• Unaccompanied refugee adolescents are at risk of poor mental health outcomes,e.g.,depression,anxiety,PTSD and psychosocial stress.• Stigma,lack of social support,stressful life events and lack of intercultural competency among mental health professionals are barriers to good mental health.What is New:• There is a need for informal and tailored health promotion initiatives in the refugee adolescents’everyday lives.• To treat the refugee adolescents as equal human beings through curiosity and receptiveness to their resources is important in order to build trust and address stigma.
Source: European Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research