Refugees and Immigrants

Abstract

Refugees and immigrants bring significant benefits of cultural diversity and economic vitality to their host countries. However, negative experiences during pre-, intra-, and post-migration may lead to greater psychological distress. Mental health providers should strive to (1) ensure effective communication through appropriate use of a trained interpreter when necessary, (2) develop a collaborative explanatory model that can serve as a common starting point for the healing process, (3) identify and foster resilience and post-traumatic growth, and (4) address socioeconomic factors that are barriers to adaptive acculturation and meaningful participation in community. Community mental health providers have an important role in the care for migrants given challenges with legal status, insurance, and poverty. Successful mental health treatment often involves embracing biopsychosocial approaches that integrate diverse sectors of support, including primary care providers, nonprofit agencies, social service agencies, policymakers, and faith-based organizations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)