ABSTRACT
Despite high levels of traumatic exposure, refugees often do not seek mental health services upon resettlement. The purpose of this study was to examine both concepts of mental illness in addition to attitudes and beliefs about treatment as well as potential barriers to accessing mental health services. To that end, qualitative research was done using focus groups with Congolese and Somali men and women in the United States (n = 48) in addition to a community survey with women from those communities (n = 296) administered by staff of a community-based organization. Mental health concerns, although identified, were often dealt with first in the communities themselves with the help of family or friends. Great emphasis was placed on their respective communities of faith. The actual role of mental health professionals was not well understood, and there was apparent hesitancy to use services, which also relates to issues of stigma.
Subject(s)
Culture , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice/ethnology , Mental Disorders/ethnology , Mental Health Services/statistics & numerical data , Adolescent , Adult , Congo/ethnology , Female , Focus Groups/methods , Humans , Middle Aged , Qualitative Research , Social Stigma , Somalia/ethnology , United States/ethnology , Young AdultABSTRACT
Researchers often approach community-based organizations as an access point to engage underserved populations in studies. In this article, 5 representatives of community organizations present their perspectives on the complexity of researcher-community partnerships and the nuances of engaging Haitian, Ethiopian, Somali, Chinese, and Asian/Pacific Islander populations in research. Each representative presents recommendations for gaining trust and understanding within their communities and challenge researchers to move beyond seeking knowledge and into social action that improves the lives of their constituents.
