Health experts in Canada warn that refugees are at greater risk for mental health problems. They are also more likely to suffer from substance abuse and depression. The challenges refugees go through do not stop at the post-traumatic stress incurred after time spent in war zones or camps.
Refugees also face increased rates of depression and schizophrenia. Psychiatrist Dr. Kwame McKenzie from the Center for Addiction and Mental Health shared his enthusiasm in knowing that the Canadian government is preparing to help Syrian refugees settle in host communities straightaway.
In 1999, the 5,000 refugees from Kosovo settled in military bases when they came to Canada. In the case of Syrian refugees, they will be taken to host communities immediately, unless the need to stay in military bases is vital.
"Some of the studies that have been seen worldwide say that you can decrease the risk significantly if you're careful about what you do when people come to the country," said McKenzie.
Health Minister Jane Philpott explained that effects of warzone-related factors such as displacement, conflict, family separation and travel were all measured when the federal government made its plan to welcome 10,000 Syrian refugees during the end of 2015. The federal government also announced that they plan to bring in 15,000 more Syrian refugees by February 2016.
"Mental health concerns are amongst the concerns that we expect to see," said Philpott who added that a quick transition into host communities is in the refugees' best interest.
Doctors in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia are gearing up to address the refugees' health issues once they arrive. Transitional Health Clinic for Refugees' Dr. Tim Holland defines the refugee population as a special demographic because of the erratic and unreliable healthcare they may have received.
Psychiatry professor and mental health expert of youth and children Dr. Stan Kutcher from Dalhousie University said that examining the refugees' mental health state upon arrival is critical. Kutcher wants to debunk the common misconception that all refugees suffer from mental health issues and post-traumatic stress disorder.
The refugee population will be physically and mentally healthy but they will be facing several challenges once they settle into a new community. Psychological challenges could arise from the transition from a warzone to a peaceful setting. Displacement from friends and family, learning a new culture and a new language and establishing new connections will all be challenging for the Syrian refugees who will relocate in Canada.
Photo: Trocaire | Flickr
