Mental Health of Refugees

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A guide to the recognition and management of mental health problems in refugees and other displaced persons. Prepared by WHO in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the manual responds to growing awareness that the trauma, terror, loss and bereavement experienced by refugees can pose serious threats to their mental health. With this concern in mind, the manual aims to help non-specialist relief workers become alert to common mental health problems and competent in their management, whether involving simple relaxation exercises or referral to a medical specialist.The first training unit explains the basic principles of effective communication and sets out the steps to follow when developing a treatment plan. In view of the stress commonly experienced by refugees, the second unit describes several simple exercises that can help people relax, sleep better, and cope with stress. Functional complaints are covered in unit three, which includes advice on the difficult question of when to give medicines. Unit four provides a detailed guide to the recognition and management of common mental disorders.The most extensive chapter describes the special needs of refugee children, explains how to recognize their distinct mental health problems, and discusses the most appropriate types of help according to four age groups. Subsequent units offer guidance on the types of mental disorders that can be safely treated by traditional healers, and explain how to recognize and manage alcohol and other drug problems. The remaining units outline approaches for helping people who have experienced torture, other violence, or rape.