Refugee Mental Health: How Canada Supports the World’s Most Vulnerable in Their Transition to Becoming Canadian
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Canada has been a sanctuary for refugees for many generations and is currently involved in welcoming a new cohort of Syrian refugees. Refugees represent a vulnerable population in Canada who require support in order to establish themselves and prevent the onset of mental illness. This article briefly describes Canada’s experience with refugees and then explores issues faced by incoming Syrians focusing specifically on factors contributing to refugee mental health. It is evident that refugees face incredible difficulties on their journey but that the various support systems in Canada significantly bolster their resilience to mental health issues.
RÉSUMÉ
Le Canada est un sanctuaire pour les réfugiés depuis plusieurs générations et accueille à l’heure actuelle une nouvelle cohorte de réfugiés syriens. Les réfugiés représentent une population vulnérable au Canada, qui nécessite du soutien afin de s’établir et de prévenir la maladie mentale. Cet article décrit brièvement l’expérience du Canada avec les réfugiés et explore par la suite les défis qu’affrontent les nouveaux venus syriens, s’attardant particulièrement sur les facteurs qui contribuent à la santé mentale des réfugiés. Il est évident que les réfugiés font face à d’incroyables difficultés tout au long de leur parcours, mais que les divers systèmes de soutien au Canada renforcent considérablement leur résilience contre les troubles de santé mentale.
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