Europe is facing the largest movement of people since the Second World War. Social workers and mental health practitioners are struggling to help migrants cope with the trauma of displacement. It is well-documented that refugees often endure significant mental distress. Many have faced oppression, war, and torture in their countries of origin, and upon fleeing, continue to grapple with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The UNHCR defines a refugee as “a person who, owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion, is outside the country of their nationality and is unable or, owing to such fear, unwilling to avail themselves of the protection of that country; or who, not having a nationality and being outside the country of their former habitual residence as a result of such events, is unable or, owing to such fear, unwilling to return to it.”
These are people fleeing war, violence, and unimaginable hardships. It is difficult to fathom the emotional burden they carry. In the UK, many end up in detention centres or temporary shelters, where restrictive government policies aim to reduce numbers. Such policies are not only ineffective but also inhumane and uncivilised.
According to Mind, restrictive policies on healthcare, education, accommodation, welfare, and employment socially exclude refugees and asylum seekers, exacerbating their existing mental health problems and causing new ones. This inherent contradiction in government policies adds further strain to already vulnerable individuals.
The pressure of Home Office interviews is another challenge, placing immense strain on refugees. Being questioned in confined spaces by authority figures often triggers memories of interrogation or torture in their home countries. This experience can lead to panic, emotional paralysis, and a worsening of their mental health.
Among refugee populations, the most common mental health diagnoses include PTSD, major depression, generalised anxiety, panic attacks, adjustment disorders, and somatisation. The prevalence of these conditions varies depending on the population and their experiences, but the need for support is universal.
Tragically, budget pressures on health and local authorities mean that many refugees are left without access to public funds or mental health services. Dependent on others, they often suffer in silence, particularly if they lack proficiency in the local language. The stigma surrounding mental health further prevents many from seeking help, with women, in particular, reluctant to discuss experiences of sexual violence or harassment due to fear of dishonour and shame.
Access to appropriate services remains a lottery. The availability of qualified counsellors who speak the refugees’ languages is scarce, and cultural barriers make it difficult for many to open up. Refugees require more than just food and shelter; they need mental health services tailored to their experiences. However, governments often focus on stabilisation – providing food, shelter, and rapid relocation – leaving mental health needs unmet. In many cases, refugees are prescribed antidepressants as a quick fix, but medication alone cannot address their complex needs.
Physical health needs also overlap with mental health issues. Sleep and mood disorders, depression, and even severe conditions like psychosis are often overlooked. Interpreters, while vital for communication, are frequently untrained in recognising mental health concerns, focusing instead on immediate needs such as food and welfare.
This is a public health tragedy. The lack of recognition for the mental health crisis among refugees is scandalous—it should be treated with the urgency of a physical epidemic. Ignoring this issue only perpetuates suffering and impedes recovery for millions.
Currently, over 21 million people – 0.3% of the global population – are refugees. Yet, instead of showing leadership and compassion, many countries are shutting their doors. The failure to provide adequate mental health support is a stain on global responsibility.
Mandy Sanghera is an international human rights activist dedicated to supporting victims of honour-based violence, cultural abuse, FGM, forced marriage, and faith-based abuse.
