Management of mental health conditions in refugee youth: An overview for the psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner.

Abstract

In 2017, there were a total of 70 million forcibly displaced individuals or refugees, worldwide. Unfortunately, over 50% of refugees are under the age of 18 years. Refugee youth are at-risk for a variety of mental health conditions. The purpose of this report is to provide psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) with an understanding of unique cultural implications in refugee youth, risk factors towards the development of psychiatric illness, and means to identify those at-risk for sequelae or those meeting diagnostic criteria. Also presented are foundational treatment and management implications to ensure the provision of culturally sensitive and efficacious care to this unique population. Utilizing PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, a literature review was conducted to identify relevant publications pertaining to mental health issues in refugee youth spanning from 2013 to present. Reference lists of identified articles were also searched. A variety of risk and protective factors are discussed, spanning from premigration, during flight, and postsettling periods. PMHNPs must be proficient in screening and diagnosis of mental health conditions in refugee youth and implementation of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. PMHNPs must also be well versed in community-based resources that can be utilized to promote optimal outcomes.