Abstract

Background: Research on forced migration and its impact on the health/mental health of migrant groups is scarce and data is often absent or inconsistent. Research that centers the voices of women with lived experience of forced migration is almost completely absent, and thus rarely used to inform policies at a global, national and local level. We aim to address these gaps and report findings from a qualitative, participatory research study aimed at identifying the key factors serving as barriers to mental health/healthcare as identified by women with lived experience of forced migration. Methods: This qualitative study employed theme-based content analysis of data gleaned from in-depth focus groups with women with lived experience of forced migration using an inductive approach. Four 1.5hr focus groups were held over a period of 2 months. Results: Five major categories emerged as key barriers to utilizing mental healthcare: (1) Fear and Distrust; (2) Discrimination; (3) Unique Experiences of Women; (4) Affordability and Appropriateness of Services; and, (5) Lack of Culturally-Responsive Services. Conclusion: This is the first study to examine mental health distress and barriers to helpseeking and accessing mental health/healthcare from the perspective of women with lived experience of forced migration in New York City. By learning directly from the population, we aim to address the gaps in existing care; inform the development of appropriate, effective, culturally-responsive services; and, promote awareness of and advocacy to stimulate policy changes responsive to the needs of this ever-increasing and marginalized group.

Keywords

forced migration, help-seeking, barriers, mental health, healthcare, women