An Intervention Supporting the Mental Health of Children with a Refugee Background. (3rd April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Serneels, Geertrui; Villanueva O'Driscoll, Julia; Imeraj, Lindita; Vanfraussen, Katrien; Lampo, Annik
• Is Part Of: Issues in mental health nursing. Volume 38:Number 4(2017)
• Page Start: 327
• Page End: 336
• Publication Date: 2017-04-03
• Subjects: Psychiatric nursing -- Periodicals; Mental health personnel -- Periodicals; 616.89023105
• DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2017.1285969
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0161-2840

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This contribution proposes an intervention methodology that provides improved access to and effectiveness of mental health care facilities in Brussels, Belgium, for children and their families with a refugee and migration background. Migration is a complex process that involves several potential risk factors, and referral to mental health facilities is often ineffective. Consequently, optimal developmental opportunities for refugee children are hampered. The intervention is underpinned by a broad-based contextual perspective that seeks to bring to the surface and tackles the many challenges faced by these families. It takes into account the unique developmental context of refugee children, as well as the interplay with broader systems.