Kalina Yordanova is a clinical psychologist in Bulgaria who has been working with refugees since 2009. She has recently been applying her expertise to help Ukrainians via an online platform called 'Кожа'.
Many Ukrainians fleeing the war in their country are likely to suffer severe mental health issues in the long-term, experts believe. They worry that all refugees could soon face even longer wait periods before they can get help, as demand for counseling exceeds availabilities.
Most of the 2.5 million refugees who have fled Ukraine have suffered traumatic experiences – among them Afghan, Iraqi and Syrian refugees who had to escape yet another war. Psychologists and social workers say counselling for the new arrivals is crucial.
A study, carried out by the WHO and published in World Psychiatry on January 11, indicates that a course of self-help for refugees experiencing psychological distress can be effective at preventing the development of a mental disorder.
Germany's new government should create more legal pathways for those fleeing conflict and persecution, says Germany's chief psychotherapist. In light of recent attacks in Germany by refugees with psychological disorders, he also stressed the need for better access to treatment.
The public debate in Germany on deporting violent or criminal migrants and refugees has been rekindled following the deadly knife attack in the city of Würzburg on June 25. However, the dimension of mental health issues and lack of access to psychological care is also being stressed following the deaths of three women in the attack.
Concluding a project on mental health for refugees in Agadez, Niger, the organization Doctors for Human Rights (MEDU) has launched an appeal to Europe, highlighting the need to ensure humanitarian corridors and the possibility of integration.
A new website in Germany in four languages has bundled together the projects and studies looking to improve the psychological health of refugees and migrants. The site www.mentalhealth4refugees.de shows seven projects where migrants might be able to access help.
As a newly arrived migrant in France, where do you turn for food, warm clothes, accommodation or legal advice? InfoMigrants has drawn up a list of some of the main NGOs and aid groups that can help make your life in France easier.
For refugees in Italy, JumaMap provides information on regulations and where they can find help. Now the website has been updated to deal with the COVID-19 emergency.
A study carried out by the University of Verona and other colleges has highlighted that 50% of migrants who have applied for international protection reported some form of psychological distress. The study pointed out that a plan developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) appears to help prevent the evolution of psychological distress.
A mental health crisis among asylum seekers from the former Moria camp on the Greek island of Lesbos is worsening. InfoMigrants has learned that in the new tent facility, even young children are receiving psychiatric treatment and medication to deal with ongoing trauma.