Abstract

In this chapter, we provide a review of empirical studies conducted on PTSD, mental health and wellbeing of migrants. Most studies suggest that both pre- and post-migration stressors affect the mental health and PTSD of migrants and refugees. In origin countries, trauma exposure and torture posed significant risks to migrants’ mental health. Mental health issues causing significant distress for migrants in host countries include acculturative stress, legal status, family separation, language barrier, poor access to proper healthcare, discrimination, racism, feelings of helplessness, decreased self-esteem, chronic distress and hypervigilance. Among all mental health problems, depression, anxiety and PTSD are considered as most common with respective prevalent figures of 4–40%, 5–44% and 9–36%. Generally, social support and adaptive coping mechanisms were identified as buffers.

Highlights

  • According to Pellat (n. d), for most people, the reactions to a traumatic event become less pronounced over time and may even disappear completely after a few weeks

  • If these symptoms continue for six weeks or longer, it may be a sign of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  • Any traumatic event can trigger PTSD, and it is important to know that PTSD is not a sign of weakness

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Summary

Introduction

According to Pellat (n. d), for most people, the reactions to a traumatic event become less pronounced over time and may even disappear completely after a few weeks. Bryant et al (2018) established that both pre- and post-migration stressors were significantly associated with higher levels of PTSD among refugees. Findings revealed that changes in social status indicators across migration were predicted to account for variance in mental health outcomes (i.e., anxiety, depression, somatization, and posttraumatic stress) beyond remigration potentially traumatic events (PTE).

Results
Conclusion

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