SBS Graduate Programs

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Browsing SBS Graduate Programs by Author "Abele, Mirdza"

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    Lay Casual Beliefs, Help-seeking Behaviours and Coping Strategies for Depression and PTSD among Syrian Refugees Living in Lebanon
    (2021) Abele, Mirdza
    A high prevalence of depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as low access and utilization rates of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) have been widely confirmed among Syrian refugees residing in Lebanon. In order to suggest culturally appropriate and feasible mental health support programs, however, it must first be examined how Syrian refugees conceptualize mental health and illness. This study, therefore, aimed to explore how depression and PTSD are believed to be caused, and what are the subsequent help-seeking behaviours and coping mechanisms employed. Following the phenomenological qualitative research design, semi-structured interviews based on vignette instruments were conducted with Syrian refugee adults who have sought refuge in Lebanon since 2011. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using a priory coding agenda. Forty participants were interviewed, the average age was M = 33.3 (SD = 11.8), 47% (n = 19) of the participants were male and 53% (n = 21) were female. Current life conditions and past traumatic events, were the most frequently reported causes of depression and PTSD. Help and healing were typically sought from family members and friends, as well as mental health care providers, and the coping mechanisms employed most frequently were active and social coping. Mental health initiatives should focus on awareness and de-stigmatisation of mental health through experienced Syrian refugees. Community level MHPSS should be delivered through psychosocial programmes as opposed to psychiatric and clinical settings. MHPSS need to be provided along-side initiatives that address the difficult socio-economic conditions.