Résultat de la recherche
“My mind is not like before”: Psychosocial rehabilitation of victims of torture in Athens
Abstract Introduction: The dual trauma of being a victim of torture as well as a refugee is related to a myriad of losses, human rights violations and other dimensions of suffering linked to torture experienced pre-migration, as well as different forms of violence experienced during and after migration. Method: To present three case studies to explore culturally-informed perspectives on trauma among victims of torture and track trajectories of psychosocial rehabilitation in relation to environmental factors. The case studies are part of a larger qualitative study of asylum seekers and refugees in a center for victims of torture in Athens, managed by Médecins Sans Frontières and Babel in collaboration with Greek Council for Refugees, which follows beneficiaries, their care providers and community representatives and leaders. Results: Key themes emerging include the substantial psychological impact of current material realities of migrant victims of torture as they adapt to their new environment and engage in rehabilitation. Delayed asylum trials, poor living conditions and unemployment have a substantial impact on posttraumatic symptoms that in turn influence psychosocial rehabilitation. Personal, social, and cultural resources emerged as having a mediating effect. Discussion: The results highlight the significant impact of the political, legal, and sociocultural environment on psychosocial rehabilitation. Practical implications for interventions are to ensure holistic, interdisciplinary, and culturally sensitive care which includes a focus on environmental factors affecting resilience; and with a dynamic focus on the totality of the individual over isolated pathologies.
Post-traumatic stress disorder among refugees following xenophobic attacks in Durban, South Africa
Following a spate of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in Durban, South Africa, displacement camps were set up to shelter predominantly Congolese and Burundian refugees. Embedded within the emergency program a prevalence study of symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was conducted among a convenience sample of this population. Twenty-seven participants included men and women who were screened for symptoms using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ). Results indicate a prevalence rate of 85% among this population. Limitations include the small sample size and potential self-reporting. The high prevalence rate of people who meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD has profound implications for psychosocial interventions and access to mental health services for this community – as well as significant broader legal and social justice implications.
Post-traumatic Stress responses among refugees following xenophobic attacks in Durban, South Africa
Following a recent spate of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in Durban, South Africa, displacement camps were set up to shelter predominantly Congolese and Burundian refugees. Embedded within the emergency program a prevalence study of symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was conducted among a convenience sample of this population. Participants included men and women who were screened for symptoms using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ). Results indicate a prevalence rate of 85% among this population. Limitations include the small sample size and potential self-reporting. The high prevalence rate of people who meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD has profound implications for psychosocial interventions and access to mental health services for this community – as well as significant broader legal and social justice implications.