One-on-One, Parallel sessions

Refugees and mental health: Family separation, detention, and prospects for reform

Friday June 23, 16:30, Alternative Stage GNO

Displaced people, refugees, and migrants, are exposed to trauma both before and during their journey, and also after, especially if they find themselves in a refugee camp. This significantly affects their mental health. Research has shown that 31% of refugees develop symptoms of PTSD, another 31% develop symptoms of depression and 11%, symptoms of an anxiety disorder. These figures demonstrate the need for psychological support from the State. Separating people from their families intensifies the mental health problems that can arise. Mamady Fotana recounted his personal refugee story from Guinea to Greece and the mental health problems he faced, describing how he received help and how he himself came to help refugees and displaced people today as a health professional.