Description:
Abstract
In June 2001, we assessed mental health problems among Karenni refugees residing in camps in Mae Hong Son,
Thailand, to determine the prevalence of mental illness, identify risk factors, and develop a culturally appropriate
intervention program. A systematic random sample was used with stratification for the three camps; 495 people aged 15
years or older from 317 households participated. We constructed a questionnaire that included demographic
characteristics, culture-specific symptoms of mental illness, the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25, the Harvard Trauma
Questionnaire, and selected questions from the SF-36 Health Survey. Mental health outcome scores indicated elevated
levels of depression and anxiety symptoms; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) scores were comparable to scores in
other communities affected by war and persecution. Psychosocial risk factors for poorer mental health and social
functioning outcomes were insufficient food, higher number of trauma events, previous mental illness, and landmine
injuries. Modifications in refugee policy may improve social functioning, and innovative mental health and psychosocial
programs need to be implemented, monitored, and evaluated for efficacy.
Published by Elsevier Ltd.
Source/publisher:
Social Science & Medicine _58 (2004) 2637?2644
Date of Publication:
2004-00-00
Date of entry:
2010-10-28
Grouping:
- Individual Documents
Category:
Language:
English