What is it about?
This article presents a framework for a more comprehensive and coordinated system of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) for refugees in the United States. It addresses the current gaps in services, which tend to focus narrowly on clinical treatment of mental disorders like PTSD, neglecting other critical psychosocial needs. The proposed model is a multitiered approach, originally developed for international humanitarian settings, and adapted for refugee resettlement. The model is structured into four tiers, ranging from basic services and social integration (Tier 1) to specialized psychiatric care (Tier 4). A key component of this framework is a "two-pillar approach" that embeds both trauma-informed and culture-informed care into every tier. This approach aims to bridge the gap between traditional mental health services and refugee resettlement programs, which often operate in isolation. The article uses a statewide initiative in Virginia as a case study to demonstrate how this model can be applied to build capacity, foster partnerships, and improve coordinated care.
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Why is it important?
Refugees face immense and complex mental health challenges stemming from both pre-migration trauma and post-migration stressors like language barriers, social isolation, and loss of support systems. Traditional mental health services often fall short because they lack cultural and linguistic capacity, focus too much on individual treatment, and don't fit with the community-oriented coping mechanisms common in many cultures. This paper is important because it offers a holistic, systematic framework to address these shortcomings. It shifts the focus from treating illness in isolation to a more integrated approach that includes promoting overall well-being and strengthening community resilience. By providing a structured model, the paper offers a practical guide for service providers, policymakers, and community organizations to better coordinate care, reduce stigma, and create a supportive environment that helps refugees truly heal and integrate into society.
Perspectives
The multitiered MHPSS model is a great step toward addressing the complex needs of refugee populations, but its success depends on consistent, long-term investment and collaboration. The case study of Virginia's Refugee Healing Partnership shows that this isn't just a theoretical framework; it can lead to real-world partnerships and a more effective system of care. What I find particularly inspiring is the emphasis on empowering refugee community leaders and integrating their insights into formal services, which ensures that care is not only trauma-informed but also truly culturally-informed. This shift from a top-down approach to one that values grassroots engagement is crucial for creating sustainable and meaningful change.
Dr. Hyojin Im
Virginia Commonwealth University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: A multilevel modeling analysis of community-based mental health and psychosocial support group intervention for refugee newcomers in the United States., Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology, November 2024, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/cdp0000729.
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