It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all individuals, including refugees, have access to basic human rights
The Rohingya community has been subjected to significant displacement and violence in Myanmar, leading to the largest refugee crisis in South-East Asia. As of Aug 31, 2022, over 943,000 Rohingya refugees reside in camps in Bangladesh, while others have resettled in various parts of the world.
The displacement experience can cause significant trauma and stress for refugees, leading to a range of mental health challenges. These can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depression, generalised anxiety and panic attacks. However, access to mental health services and resources for refugees is often limited or non-existent, leading to a significant gap in mental health support for these populations.
Research has shown that the prevalence of mental health disorders among the refugee population is well above the global prevalence of PTSD and depression. A meta-analysis of 193 studies conducted by the UNHCR found that up to 30% of refugees experience depression and anxiety, while up to 40% experience PTSD. However, these rates may be under-reported due to the challenges they face in accessing mental health services and resources.
In addition, refugees may face other challenges that can further affect their mental health conditions, such as language barriers, cultural differences and discrimination. These can make it difficult for them to access the support and resources they need to address their mental health issues.
A Monash University Malaysia study (led by Assoc Prof Shamsul Haque and his PhD student Sanjida Khan) examined the impact of direct and indirect trauma on the mental health and daily functioning of Rohingya refugees living in different resettlement conditions.
The study compared the experiences of Rohingyas resettled in camps in rural Bangladesh to urban locations in Malaysia.
Results showed that the Rohingyas in Bangladesh experienced more traumatic events and had higher levels of PTSD, depression, generalised anxiety and functional impairment compared to those in Malaysia.
Although the two cohorts did not differ in indirect exposure to traumatic incidents, the Malaysian cohort had more direct exposure to traumatic events than the Bangladeshi cohort. Notably, the study also revealed that both direct and indirect trauma predicted PTSD, depression and functional impairment among Rohingyas in Bangladesh, with direct trauma being the stronger predictor. However, only indirect trauma predicted PTSD among Rohingyas in Malaysia.
The study highlights the importance of understanding the different types of trauma and their impact on mental health among refugee populations. Direct trauma involves experiencing traumatic events in person or witnessing traumatic events happening with others. In contrast, indirect trauma refers to learning about traumatic incidents through others.
The findings suggest that both direct and indirect trauma should be considered in the provision of mental health services and support for refugees. The study also emphasises the need for tailored mental health support for refugee populations, considering the variations in exposure to traumatic episodes.
“It is essential to recognise the unique experiences of different refugee communities and provide support that is culturally and linguistically appropriate. The study raises broader questions about the long-term impact of displacement and trauma on refugee mental health.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has added another layer of stress and uncertainty for refugees, exacerbating existing mental health challenges. As we continue to address the mental health needs of refugees, it is crucial to consider the broader social, economic and political factors that contribute to displacement and trauma,” Haque stated in the study.
Several strategies have been found to be effective in promoting resilience and recovery among refugees facing mental health issues. One strategy is trauma-focused therapy, which involves addressing the traumatic events that led to the individual’s displacement and helping them process their experiences. This therapy can be delivered in individual or group settings, and has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD and depression.
Another effective strategy is cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviours that may be contributing to their mental health issues. CBT is effective in treating anxiety and depression among refugee people.
In addition to therapy, other strategies can also promote resilience and recovery among this population. These include building social support networks, fostering a sense of community and belonging, and promoting physical wellness through exercise, nutrition and sleep. Engaging in cultural activities and maintaining cultural traditions can also help refugee people maintain a sense of identity and connectedness to their culture.
It’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to promoting resilience and recovery among affected refugees. Everyone’s needs and experiences are unique, and it’s essential to tailor interventions to their specific circumstances. Providing culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate mental health services is key to promoting resilience and recovery among those refugees facing mental health challenges.
This World Refugee Day (June 20, 2023), let us recognise the resilience and strength of refugee communities and work towards creating a world where everyone can live with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all individuals, including refugees, have access to basic human rights, such as safety, shelter, healthcare, education and the opportunity to pursue their aspirations.
- Assoc Prof Shamsul Haque is an associate professor at the Department of Psychology at Monash University Malaysia’s Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, where Sanjida Khan is pursuing her PhD.
- This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition