Integrated Mental Health Care for Refugees in a Primary Health Care Setting: What works, for whom and why

Mental ill health is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is significantly higher among refugees and asylum seekers due to trauma, displacement, and resettlement stress. Primary healthcare clinics are often the first point of contact for newcomers including refugees, however many refugees experience barriers in accessing the mental health resources and supports they need. In addition, due to the complexity of mental health needs, many providers find it difficulty to provide integrated mental health services.

This project explores how, why, for whom, and in what contexts integrated mental health care works for refugees within and across primary health care settings. Building on a five-year realist evaluation funded by the Michael Smith Health Research BC (MSHRBC) Scholar Award, the study partners with primary healthcare centers in BC to test and refine a practical model of integrated care. Through interviews, fieldwork, and collaboration with healthcare providers and service users, i.e., refugees, the project aims to identify what makes integration successful in real-world settings.

Findings will guide the development of an evidence-based framework to support more equitable, person-centered, and coordinated mental health services for refugees, strengthening both policy and practice across BC and Canada.

Faculty Supervisor:

Nancy Clark

Student:

Partner:

Lancaster University

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences and Technology; Other

University:

University of Victoria

Program: