Healthcare

Research

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39 pages, 343 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Factors Associated with Health Literacy Among Afghan Refugees in Pakistan

by Atta Ur Rehman, Rubeena Zakar, Gulzar H. Shah, Ume Hani, Muhammad Zakria Zakar and Tran Nguyen

Healthcare 2026, 14(8), 1034; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14081034 - 14 Apr 2026

Viewed by 703

Abstract

Introduction: Health literacy enables refugees to assess, understand, and utilize health information effectively. This investigation aims to identify factors influencing health literacy levels among Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using a multistage sampling approach was conducted to collect data from [...] Read more.

Introduction: Health literacy enables refugees to assess, understand, and utilize health information effectively. This investigation aims to identify factors influencing health literacy levels among Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using a multistage sampling approach was conducted to collect data from 1185 refugees. Health literacy levels were measured using the pre-validated All Aspects of Health Literacy tool in five districts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces that met the inclusion criteria. We used logistic regression models to analyze the dichotomous dependent variables. Results: A significant proportion of Afghan refugees demonstrated low functional health literacy and required assistance with reading and completing health documentation. Afghan refugees in the younger age group, male gender, higher monthly income, and access to healthcare information and clean water were more functionally literate in health. More than two thirds of the Afghan refugee population had adequate communicative health literacy with health care professionals in Pakistan. Most refugees believed that healthy lifestyles information and encouragement were more crucial for health than housing, employment, education, and local infrastructure. Conclusions: Afghan refugees in Pakistan lacked functional health literacy, critical health literacy, and overall health literacy. However, they have adequate communicative health literacy. This initial survey added new data on Afghans’ health literacy levels, which could help stakeholders strengthen health promotion initiatives within the healthcare system to improve health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

13 pages, 514 KB

Open AccessArticle

Healthcare Access Dynamics and Characteristics of Foreign Nationals Using Emergency Departments: A Retrospective Study from Türkiye

by Gokhan Taskin and Murat Aysin

Healthcare 2026, 14(4), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14040488 - 14 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 621

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Türkiye is located at the intersection of major international migration routes and plays a critical role in global migrant health. The growing immigrant and refugee population has introduced new challenges to healthcare systems (HCSs), particularly in emergency departments (EDs). This study aims [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Türkiye is located at the intersection of major international migration routes and plays a critical role in global migrant health. The growing immigrant and refugee population has introduced new challenges to healthcare systems (HCSs), particularly in emergency departments (EDs). This study aims to address a gap in the literature by evaluating the reasons foreign nationals present to the ED, their diagnostic distribution, and access to healthcare services in relation to sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: This retrospective study included foreign nationals who presented to the Emergency Department of Balikesir University Hospital between January 2020 and June 2025. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained from the hospital information management system. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 27.0. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic and clinical characteristics, including gender, nationality, admission period, diagnosis groups, laboratory testing, consultations, and patient outcomes. Results: A total of 6366 foreign nationals were included. Of these, 66.4% were female and 33.6% were male, with a mean age of 31.9 years for females and 26.8 years for males. Syrians constituted the largest group (50%). ED visits occurred most frequently in spring (30.1%) and peaked in 2024. The majority of patients (99.3%) were managed as outpatients. The most common diagnoses were internal medicine-related conditions (36.1%) and genitourinary emergencies (32.2%). Consultations were most frequently requested from the obstetrics and gynecology department (21.2%). Overall, 92.9% of patients were discharged from the ED. Conclusions: The findings suggest that foreign nationals often use emergency services as an alternative to primary healthcare. Low rates of laboratory and imaging utilization indicate that most ED visits were for non-urgent and uncomplicated conditions. Factors such as language barriers, communication difficulties, prolonged observation times, and limited social support may contribute to this pattern. This study provides comprehensive local data on the emergency care utilization of foreign nationals in Türkiye and offers valuable insights for healthcare planning and policy development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

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20 pages, 2948 KB

Open AccessArticle

Interconnected Challenges: Examining the Impact of Poverty, Disability, and Mental Health on Refugees and Host Communities in Northern Mozambique

by Theresa Beltramo, Florence Nimoh, Sandra Sequeira and Peter Ventevogel

Healthcare 2025, 13(24), 3187; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13243187 - 5 Dec 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1019

Abstract

Background: Poverty, disability, and mental health may reinforce one another. Forced displacement can compound these challenges, yet comparable data on displaced and non-displaced groups in the same setting are scarce. This study examines associations among mental health, disability, pessimism, loneliness, self-esteem, and financial [...] Read more.

Background: Poverty, disability, and mental health may reinforce one another. Forced displacement can compound these challenges, yet comparable data on displaced and non-displaced groups in the same setting are scarce. This study examines associations among mental health, disability, pessimism, loneliness, self-esteem, and financial security for refugees and nearby host communities in Mozambique. Methods: Ultra-poor adults—refugees (n = 134) and Mozambican nationals living near the settlement (n = 314)—were identified using a World Bank poverty scorecard. Surveys captured depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), disability (Washington Group Short Set), and socioeconomic characteristics. Results: Symptom rates are high in both groups—depression: 34% (refugees) vs. 29% (hosts); anxiety: 25% overall—with women reporting higher levels. Disability prevalence is substantial (refugees 25%; hosts 22%). Respondents with disabilities show markedly higher rates of depression (≈2×) and anxiety (≈3×). Financial security is negatively associated with symptom scores: a one-unit-higher financial security index correlates with a 0.069 lower anxiety score (p < 0.05) and a 0.069 lower depression score (p < 0.01). Pessimism is positively associated with poorer mental health; anxiety and depression are more than 2.5× as prevalent among chronically pessimistic respondents. Loneliness shows no clear association with anxiety or depression in this sample, whereas low self-esteem is strongly associated with both; prevalence of GAD and depression is more than twice as high among those with low self-esteem. Conclusions: We document strong associations between poverty, disability, and mental health. These patterns underscore the importance of strengthening mental and public health services for both refugees and hosts, with particular attention to women and disabled individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

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14 pages, 237 KB

Open AccessArticle

Invisible Barriers: Institutional Discrimination Against Asylum-Seeking Women in Portugal

by Gabriela Mesquita Borges

Healthcare 2025, 13(22), 2967; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13222967 - 19 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 903

Abstract

Introduction: Building a life in an asylum country poses specific challenges for women, who often face compounded barriers in healthcare, language acquisition, economic independence, childcare, education, cultural adaptation, and legal processes. This study examines the experiences of asylum-seeking women in Portugal, focusing on [...] Read more.

Introduction: Building a life in an asylum country poses specific challenges for women, who often face compounded barriers in healthcare, language acquisition, economic independence, childcare, education, cultural adaptation, and legal processes. This study examines the experiences of asylum-seeking women in Portugal, focusing on discrimination perpetrated by professionals within reception and integration institutions. Methods: Drawing on 24 semi-structured interviews with women from the Middle East (n = 14) and Africa (n = 10), this research adopts a criminological and gender lens and employs a narrative paradigm informed by constructivist Grounded Theory and an abductive approach. Results: The analysis reveals that institutional discrimination, manifested through neglect, hostility, and cultural insensitivity, reinforces feelings of abandonment and fear, obstructs integration, and perpetuates cycles of marginalization and vulnerability. These dynamics are intensified by gender-based and structural violence embedded in asylum procedures and professional practices. The findings highlight the emotional and relational dimensions of institutional encounters, showing how empathy, trust, and intercultural awareness among professionals are crucial for effective inclusion. Conclusions: This study concludes that addressing institutional discrimination requires systemic change, professional training in gender-sensitive and intercultural competencies, and the promotion of equitable, inclusive, and human rights-based reception practices in Portugal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

18 pages, 238 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Health, Social, and Legal Approaches to Supporting Migrant Women Victims of Human Trafficking and Sexual Violence

by María del Mar Jiménez-Lasserrotte, Karim El Marbouhe El Faqyr, Maria Kinza El Amrani Escot, María José Rodas Vanegas, José Granero-Molina and José Manuel Hernández-Padilla

Healthcare 2025, 13(22), 2878; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13222878 - 12 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1008

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Human trafficking is a serious violation of human rights, with migrant women being among the most affected groups. This study aimed to explore the experiences of health, legal, and social professionals involved in the care of migrant women victims of trafficking and [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Human trafficking is a serious violation of human rights, with migrant women being among the most affected groups. This study aimed to explore the experiences of health, legal, and social professionals involved in the care of migrant women victims of trafficking and sexual violence in southern Spain. Methods: A qualitative design was applied, using semi-structured interviews with 47 professionals from hospitals, NGOs, and legal institutions. Results: The analysis identified common challenges such as language barriers, limited resources, and the absence of standardized protocols. Health professionals highlighted the need for continuous training and culturally sensitive care; legal professionals emphasized flexibility in procedures and the importance of confidential interviews for early detection; and social workers stressed the value of coordinated action across sectors. Conclusions: The findings underline the need for an integrated approach that combines health, social, and legal responses in order to improve protection and support for migrant women victims of trafficking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

19 pages, 365 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Interplay of Quality of Life and Psychological Distress Among Egyptian Migrants in Australia: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Gihane Endrawes and Wenpeng You

Healthcare 2025, 13(22), 2853; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13222853 - 10 Nov 2025

Viewed by 726

Abstract

Background: The interplay between QoL and psychological distress may differ cross-culturally. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between quality of life (QoL) and psychological distress, among an Egyptian Christian background sample. Methods: Participants completed QoL and K-10 questionnaires. Descriptive [...] Read more.

Background: The interplay between QoL and psychological distress may differ cross-culturally. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between quality of life (QoL) and psychological distress, among an Egyptian Christian background sample. Methods: Participants completed QoL and K-10 questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and partial correlation controlling for age were conducted to explore these relationships. Results: The sample had a mean age of 50.64 years (SD ± 9.6) and was slightly male dominated (57.1%). QoL scores ranged from 4.23 to 5.52 on a 7-point scale, with the highest scores in personal relationships and the lowest in community engagement. K-10 scores indicated low to moderate psychological distress, with feeling tired without reason scoring highest. A significant negative correlation was found between QoL and K-10 scores (r = −0.354, p < 0.001), suggesting higher QoL is associated with lower psychological distress. Material comforts and health showed the strongest negative correlations with K-10 scores. The relationship between QoL and psychological distress remained significant after controlling for age (r = −0.347, p < 0.01). Self-awareness and self-expression emerged as key factors positively correlated with overall QoL. Conclusions: Enhancing QoL, particularly in areas of material comfort, health, and personal growth, may effectively reduce psychological distress. Interventions should be culturally tailored to respect linguistic and religious backgrounds. Further research with more diverse samples and longitudinal designs is recommended to deepen understanding of these relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

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15 pages, 1321 KB

Open AccessArticle

Adolescent Refugee Potential Traumatic Experience and Mental Health in Gambella Region in Ethiopia: A Model Examining Mediating Effects of Coping and Resilience

by Solomon D. Danga, Babatope O. Adebiyi, Erica Koegler, Conran Joseph and Nicolette V. Roman

Healthcare 2025, 13(9), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13091069 - 6 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1370

Abstract

Background: Refugees often experience multiple traumatic events due to persecution, conflict, and displacement, which can result in poor mental health outcomes. Objective: The current study examined whether coping and resilience mediate the relationship between traumatic experience(s) and mental health outcomes and whether [...] Read more.

Background: Refugees often experience multiple traumatic events due to persecution, conflict, and displacement, which can result in poor mental health outcomes. Objective: The current study examined whether coping and resilience mediate the relationship between traumatic experience(s) and mental health outcomes and whether these indirect effects were moderated by age, gender, and refugee camp duration. Method: A cross-sectional, correlational study design was employed. Data were collected from 14 July 2019 to 28 August 2019. A sample of 414 adolescent refugees from two refugee camps in the Gambella regional state of Ethiopia were selected using proportional stratified sampling and simple random sampling techniques. Participants completed a self-reported questionnaire. Data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling for hypotheses testing causal models. Results: Coping and resilience fully mediated the relationship between traumatic experience and mental health among adolescent refugees. Refugee camp duration as a moderator factor weakens the positive relationship between traumatic experiences and mental health outcomes. Conclusions: This study highlights the critical importance of comprehensive intervention strategies that strengthen adolescent refugee personal, family, social, and community level coping and resilience abilities within refugee camps setting. The findings also strongly suggested that early intervention in refugee camps could protect adolescent refugees from possible psychological distress and maintain adolescents’ mental health and well-being within refugee camps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

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12 pages, 1199 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sleep Disorders in South–South Latino Migrants: The Role of Acculturation in the Subjective Assessment of Insomnia Symptoms

by Alfonso Urzúa, Javier Torres-Vallejos and Diego Aragón-Caqueo

Healthcare 2025, 13(8), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13080904 - 15 Apr 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1525

Abstract

Research on sleep disorders among migrant populations is limited, particularly in the context of south–south Latinos migrating to other Latin American countries. Objective: This study aims to analyze the effect that the acculturation process may play on the presence of the subjective assessment [...] Read more.

Research on sleep disorders among migrant populations is limited, particularly in the context of south–south Latinos migrating to other Latin American countries. Objective: This study aims to analyze the effect that the acculturation process may play on the presence of the subjective assessment of insomnia symptoms in South American migrants in Chile. Methods: Under a cross-sectional design, 1844 South American migrants from Colombia, Venezuela and Peru, currently residing in Chile, were evaluated. Of these, 50% were women with an average age of 35 years. Data were collected using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the EBEA scale for acculturation stress, a scale based on Berry’s acculturation strategies, and the anxiety subscale of the DASS-21. Mediation models were employed to assess anxiety as a mediating variable between both acculturation stress and acculturation orientations as well as insomnia symptoms. Results: A home-country-focused orientation was inversely related to insomnia symptoms, whereas a host-country-focused orientation showed a direct association. Anxiety did not mediate either of these relationships. However, acculturation stress was directly associated with the emergence of insomnia symptoms; in this relationship, anxiety partially mediated the negative effect of stress on sleep. Conclusions: There is a complex and dynamic interplay between the acculturation process, insomnia, and anxiety within south-to-south migration in Latin countries. Understanding these relationships could promote culturally sensitive interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of migration-related stressors on sleep health and the overall well-being of Latino migrants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

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13 pages, 203 KB

Open AccessArticle

Navigating Equitable Access to Cancer and Mental Health Services During Pandemics: Stakeholder Perspectives on COVID-19 Challenges and Community-Based Solutions for Immigrants and Refugees—Proceedings from Think Tank Sessions

by Mandana Vahabi, Kimberly Devotta, Cliff Ledwos, Josephine P. Wong, Miya Narushima, Jennifer Rayner, Roula Hawa, Kenneth Fung, Geetanjali D. Datta, Axelle Janczur, Cynthia Damba and Aisha Lofters

Healthcare 2025, 13(5), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13050564 - 5 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1982

Abstract

Background: Increasing evidence shows that the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted certain populations, particularly those facing structural marginalization, such as immigrants and refugees. Additionally, research highlights that structurally marginalized populations living with chronic conditions, such as cancer and/or mental health and addiction (MH&A) [...] Read more.

Background: Increasing evidence shows that the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted certain populations, particularly those facing structural marginalization, such as immigrants and refugees. Additionally, research highlights that structurally marginalized populations living with chronic conditions, such as cancer and/or mental health and addiction (MH&A) disorders, are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of COVID-19. These individuals face higher susceptibility to infection and worse health outcomes, including increased rates of hospitalization, severe illness, and death. To better understand the challenges faced by people living at the intersection of social and clinical disadvantages, we organized a series of Think Tank sessions to engage stakeholders in exploring barriers and identifying community-based solutions for immigrants and refugees living with cancer and/or MH&A disorders during the current and future pandemics. Objectives: Our main objectives were to gauge how earlier findings resonated with stakeholders, to identify any gaps in the work, and to co-develop actionable solutions to safeguard health and well-being during COVID-19 and future crises. Methods: Two virtual Think Tank sessions were held in September 2023 as integrative knowledge exchange forums. The Cancer Think Tank was attended by 40 participants, while the MH&A disorders Think Tank included 41 participants. Each group comprised immigrants and refugees living with or affected by cancer (in the Cancer Think Tank) or MH&A disorders (in the MH&A disorders Think Tank), alongside service providers, policymakers, and researchers from Ontario. This paper presents the key discussions and outcomes of these sessions. Results: Participants identified and prioritized actionable strategies during the Think Tank sessions. In the Cancer Think Tank, participants emphasized the importance of leveraging foreign-trained healthcare providers to address workforce shortages, creating clinical health ambassadors to bridge gaps in care, and connecting immigrants with healthcare providers immediately upon their arrival in Canada. In the MH&A disorders Think Tank, participants highlighted the need to remove silos by fostering intersectoral collaboration, empowering communities and building capacity to support mental health, and moving away from one-size-fits-all approaches to develop tailored interventions that better address diverse needs. Conclusions: The Think Tank sessions enhanced our understanding of how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted immigrants and refugees living with cancer and/or MH&A disorders. The insights gained informed a series of actionable recommendations to address the unique needs of these populations during the current pandemic and in future public health crises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

18 pages, 260 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Psychological Impact Among Syrian Refugees in Host Countries

by Dalia Al-Hourani, Mahmoud Al-Wriekat, Rocío Llamas-Ramos and Inés Llamas-Ramos

Healthcare 2025, 13(5), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13050488 - 24 Feb 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2898

Abstract

Background: Refugees face numerous challenges, including conflict, displacement, family separation, human rights violations, limited access to basic needs, and exposure to violence and torture. These experiences significantly impact their psychological well-being, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Syrian refugees in Jordan [...] Read more.

Background: Refugees face numerous challenges, including conflict, displacement, family separation, human rights violations, limited access to basic needs, and exposure to violence and torture. These experiences significantly impact their psychological well-being, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Syrian refugees in Jordan may experience higher levels of depression and anxiety than those in Spain due to harsher living conditions, limited economic opportunities, uncertain legal status, inadequate mental health services, and ongoing proximity to the Syrian conflict, whereas refugees in Spain benefit from better integration, stronger support systems, and greater stability. Objective: This study aimed to assess and compare the psychological symptoms experienced by Syrian refugees in Jordan and Spain. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational design was employed to evaluate the psychological impact on Syrian refugees in both developed (Spain) and developing (Jordan) country. A sample of 200 refugees from camps, residences, and refugee centers was recruited. Psychological symptoms were measured using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Results: The majority of participants had low income, secondary education, and were unemployed. Overall, 55.5% reported stress, 63.5% anxiety, and 68.5% depression. Higher levels of stress and depression were observed among females, unemployed individuals, and low-income groups. Age also played a critical role, with individuals aged 40–49 reporting elevated stress, anxiety, and depression compared with other age groups. Discrimination and living arrangements further influenced mental health, with low-social-connectivity communities and rural areas associated with higher anxiety and depression. Higher levels of stress and depression were observed among females in Spain and significant mental health disparities across age and income groups in Jordan. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing sociodemographic vulnerabilities to improve refugee mental health outcomes. Refugees in Jordan reported significantly higher levels of depression and anxiety compared with those in Spain. Conclusions: The findings highlight the profound psychological burden faced by Syrian refugees, particularly in Jordan, where living conditions and systemic challenges exacerbate mental health issues. Factors such as age, gender, marital status, low education, and low income were strongly associated with higher stress levels in both countries. These results underscore the need for targeted mental health interventions, improved access to psychological support, and policies that address the socioeconomic and legal challenges faced by refugees. Enhancing integration, reducing discrimination, and providing comprehensive mental health services are critical steps toward improving the well-being of this vulnerable population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

13 pages, 3276 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Sense of Coherence as a Mediator of the Negative Effect of Discrimination on the Quality of Life in the Migrant Population

by Alfonso Urzúa, Diego Henríquez, Sara Hernández and Alejandra Caqueo-Urízar

Healthcare 2025, 13(4), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13040366 - 8 Feb 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2282

Abstract

Migration generates changes in the quality of life (QoL) of immigrants. One of the difficulties that the process of migrating can entail is discrimination, which is the set of negative attitudes towards a person, in this case, because of their nationality. Objective: To [...] Read more.

Migration generates changes in the quality of life (QoL) of immigrants. One of the difficulties that the process of migrating can entail is discrimination, which is the set of negative attitudes towards a person, in this case, because of their nationality. Objective: To analyze the effect that the sense of coherence (SOC) has on the relationship that discrimination by national origin has on quality of life. Method: The WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire was used to assess QoL, and Krieger’s Perceived Discrimination Experiences scale and Antonovsky’s SOC-13 scale were applied to 2144 participants (49.9% women), aged between 18 and 82 years, from Venezuela, Colombia and Peru, all of them being first generation migrants living in Chile. Results: In all the national groups evaluated, discrimination has an inverse relationship with both QoL and SOC, while the latter has a positive relationship with QoL. The direct effect of discrimination on QoL life is found to be smaller when this relationship is mediated by the presence of the SOC. This proposed model has good goodness-of-fit indicators in the three national groups evaluated. Conclusions: A strong and well-defined life purpose, a perception of greater control over surrounding events and situations, and perceiving life events as understandable and consistent can be an effective tools to diminish the effect of discrimination on quality of life in the migrant population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

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12 pages, 196 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tetanus Vaccine Knowledge, Beliefs, and Attitudes Among Syrian Pregnant Women in Türkiye: A Qualitative Study

by Zeynep Meva Altaş, Bayan Abdulhaq, Mehmet Akif Sezerol and Selma Karabey

Healthcare 2025, 13(3), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13030302 - 2 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3306

Abstract

Background: In this qualitative study, we aimed to evaluate the knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes of Syrian pregnant women living in Türkiye toward tetanus vaccination, vaccine hesitations, and the perceived benefits and harms of the tetanus vaccine. Methods: In face-to-face, in-depth interviews, an open-ended, [...] Read more.

Background: In this qualitative study, we aimed to evaluate the knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes of Syrian pregnant women living in Türkiye toward tetanus vaccination, vaccine hesitations, and the perceived benefits and harms of the tetanus vaccine. Methods: In face-to-face, in-depth interviews, an open-ended, semi-structured interview guide was used by an interviewer and translator who spoke Arabic, which is the mother tongue of the participants. Codes, themes, and subthemes were created. Results: In the study, face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted with a total of 16 pregnant women. The median age of the pregnant women was 26.5 years (18.0–41.0). The median time since they arrived in Türkiye as migrants was 8.5 years (3.0–10.0). The themes were “Beliefs about vaccines”, “Information about vaccines”, “Knowledge, beliefs and attitudes about tetanus vaccine”, “Reasons for vaccination desire”, “Reasons for not being vaccinated”, and “Problems experienced while receiving health services”. Pregnant women mostly mentioned that vaccines have benefits. Most of the women stated that tetanus vaccine is needed to protect from diseases. There were no women thinking that vaccines are harmful. Some of them only mentioned the minor side effects observed after vaccination. Participants mentioned that they get information about vaccines from relatives such as family and friends, health professionals, television, and social media. However, some women talked about the fact that they had no knowledge about vaccines. A lack of knowledge and not visiting the health institution were the reasons for not being vaccinated. Conclusions: Although participants mostly believed that vaccination is necessary and has benefits, some women had no idea about the exact purpose of vaccines. This lack of knowledge may cause vaccine hesitancy and refusal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

Review

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19 pages, 298 KB

Open AccessReview

Speaking the Self: How Native-Language Psychotherapy Enables Change in Refugees: A Person-Centered Perspective

by Viktoriya Zipper-Weber

Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1920; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151920 - 6 Aug 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2700

Abstract

Background: Since the outbreak of war in Ukraine, countless forcibly displaced individuals facing not only material loss, but also deep psychological distress, have sought refuge across Europe. For those traumatized by war, the absence of a shared language in therapy can hinder healing [...] Read more.

Background: Since the outbreak of war in Ukraine, countless forcibly displaced individuals facing not only material loss, but also deep psychological distress, have sought refuge across Europe. For those traumatized by war, the absence of a shared language in therapy can hinder healing and exacerbate suffering. While cultural diversity in psychotherapy has gained recognition, the role of native-language communication—especially from a person-centered perspective—remains underexplored. Methods: This narrative review with a thematic analysis examines whether and how psychotherapy in the mother tongue facilitates access to therapy and enhances therapeutic efficacy. Four inter-related clusters emerged: (1) the psychosocial context of trauma and displacement; (2) language as a structural gatekeeper to care (RQ1); (3) native-language therapy as a mechanism of change (RQ2); (4) potential risks such as over-identification or therapeutic mismatch (RQ2). Results: The findings suggest that native-language therapy can support the symbolic integration of trauma and foster the core conditions for healing. The implications for multilingual therapy formats, training in interpreter-mediated settings, and future research designs—including longitudinal, transnational studies—are discussed. Conclusions: In light of the current crises, language is not just a tool for access to therapy, but a pathway to psychological healing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees)

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