Arab refugees in the world of mental health: A literature review

Abstract

Purpose: In an effort to specifically address the needs of Arab refugees with regards to psychotherapy, this literature review covers the published research data within eleven scholarly articles and studies from the years 2005 to 2019 on the topics of common psychological ailments and symptoms among Iraqi and Syrian refugees, their perspectives and literacy on mental health & mental health treatments, and concludes with a brief discussion on implications for practice and unanswered questions for future research. Conclusions: In the face of collective trauma, persecutions, adversity, exile and acculturation stress, many Arab refugees are astoundingly resilient. Although these refugees have significant, unaddressed mental health issues and other concerns regarding stigma and the avoidance of psychological treatment, there is evidence to suggest that their attitudes may change upon interaction with mental health professionals. To effectively treat refugees, practitioners must hold a concrete comprehension of the heritage, cultural, psychohistorical, and sociopolitical environments of which these refugees are a product; they must also confront their own biases and misperceptions. Recommendations: Trans-diagnostic treatments that include an emphasis on increasing personal resilience, a comprehensive biopsychosocial understanding of the individual, and employ culturally-informed, evidence-based treatments like narrative exposure therapy for trauma, relaxation techniques, and direct, solution-focused approaches work best. More collaborations between mental health practitioners and prominent community leaders may help in addressing refugee mental health concerns and gaps in coverage. In future research, the attitudes and willingness of Arab refugees to seek psychological help must be examined.