Mental health considerations of a humanitarian crisis: Identification of needs and delivery of services to Afghan child and adolescent refugees in Qatar.

Abstract

This paper summarizes a novel initiative by Qatar mental health services to support Afghan refugee children and adolescents. The project involved evaluating needs, establishing a dedicated team, and setting up a suitable needs-based service. After identifying the needs, a range of appropriate psychiatric, psychological, and allied health interventions was commenced. This unique program has been tremendously successful in providing quality care and has received an immensely positive response. We have demonstrated that a targeted, non-stigmatizing and collaborative mental health response can be highly effective in catering to the needs of individuals affected by a humanitarian crisis.