Report links asylum experience with issues of mental health

The experience of past traumas, fears for the future and the impact of living under the direct provision accommodation system are all having a negative impact on the mental health of asylum seekers in Galway, according to a new report.

The report, The Mental Health Promotion Needs of Asylum Seekers and Refugees, has found that the language barrier is also contributing to asylum seekers' perception of their health as poor.

The report suggests revisiting policies in relation to the reception of asylum seekers in this country and the need to improve social inclusion by linking with local service providers and institutions and by availing of existing social resources in the community.

The study was undertaken by the Health Promotion Services, HSE West, in association with Galway City Development Board, to explore the mental health promotion needs of adult asylum seekers and refugees in Galway city.

The findings of the report will inform the development of an action plan for focused mental health interventions in Galway city.

Refugees' perceptions of health were more positive as a result of their independent lifestyle than those of asylum seekers.

However, language barriers were still significant in this group, as well as the lack of employment opportunities.

Author of the report Régine Stewart said: "Asylum seekers and refugees do not feel socially integrated in Irish society. Mental health promotion interventions can enable individuals and communities to improve and maintain wellbeing and prevent the onset of mental ill-health. The key is the integration and co-ordination of services."

The study found that 88 per cent of participants said they wished to be integrated into Irish society, but could not do so as long as they were denied the right to work, while 94 per cent said they had no opportunity to get to know people.

The fear of deportation was very real for residents who had experienced evacuations of fellow residents from their hostel by immigration officials.

Eighty-eight per cent of those interviewed said they were still dealing with past traumas.

The report recommends that the mental health needs of asylum seekers should be assessed when they enter Ireland, taking into account the circumstances of their arrival, their culture and beliefs.

Appropriate timely psychological support should be made available for asylum seekers on arrival in Ireland, and policies within direct provision centres should be reviewed with a view to promoting a more independent lifestyle.

Access to language resources should be improved and targets to reduce waiting lists for courses set and reviewed on an continuing basis.

The report recommends that consideration be given to enabling transition-year students to act as mentors to asylum seekers and refugees in developing links with the Irish community.