Supporting Refugee Mental Health in Africa

In Africa, the mental health of refugees is a growing concern. With increasing instability and displacement, many refugees face significant mental health issues. Trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression are common among these vulnerable groups. Various groups have stepped in to help, but the details of these efforts are often unclear. This review aims to shed light on the mental health interventions happening in Africa, their success, and why they are being done. The review looked at studies from 2010 to 2024 to understand what is being done and why. It focused on two main questions: What mental health support is being provided to refugees in Africa, and what are the key findings and challenges? And what drives these efforts? The findings were organized and analyzed to identify patterns and themes. Twelve studies were found to meet the criteria. Most of these interventions had positive outcomes. Recommendations from these studies included working with local groups, regular suicide prevention, and adapting digital tools to fit community needs. The review also found five main reasons behind these efforts: meeting community needs, recognizing risks and protective factors, adaptability, holistic approaches, and evidence-based practices. However, there is a notable gap in the number of interventions. Many do not align well with the specific needs of the refugees they aim to help. Future efforts should focus on creating culturally informed, evidence-based mental health support that is both relevant to the context and scalable. This means understanding the unique challenges and strengths of each refugee community and tailoring support accordingly. It is crucial to recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health. Refugees often face immense stress and trauma, and providing the right support can make a significant difference in their lives. By learning from past efforts and focusing on what works best for each community, more effective mental health support can be provided to refugees in Africa.