African Gastroenterology | 16 September 2000
Access to Mental Health Services Among Refugees in Libyan City Centers and Their Impact on Stress Levels One Year Post Intervention
A, h, m, e, d, E, l, -, K, h, a, l, i, f, a
Abstract
This study examines the access to mental health services among refugees residing in Libyan city centers and its impact on stress levels one year post-intervention. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights through interviews and focus groups conducted among a sample of refugees. Survey results indicate that only 30% of surveyed refugees reported accessing mental health services within one year post-intervention. Qualitative analysis revealed common barriers such as language difficulties and stigma associated with seeking help, which influenced stress levels disproportionately in the higher-income group (45%) compared to lower-income groups. While initial intervention efforts improved access to mental health resources, significant disparities persist among different socioeconomic groups, necessitating tailored strategies to enhance inclusivity. Development of culturally sensitive and affordable services is recommended, along with community engagement programmes aimed at overcoming stigma. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p<em>i)=\beta</em>0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.