A primer for staff working in mental health and psychosocial support programmes

Cavallera, V, Reggi, M., Abdi, S., Jinnah, Z., Kivelenge, J.,Warsame, A.M., Yusuf, A.M., Ventevogel, P.

Edited by UNHCR in 2016, this review’s aim is to provide information about the sociocultural background and contextual aspects of mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of the Somali population. It is primarily written for humanitarian staff involved in providing mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) to Somali people who have been affected by displacement, both within Somalia as well as countries hosting Somalia refugees, particularly within neighbouring African countries. The content of this review should assist MHPSS workers in the design and delivery of interventions to promote mental health and psychosocial wellbeing. It may also be relevant for other humanitarian professionals working with Somalis, and for mental health professionals working with Somalis in resettlement countries.

Structure of the document

Chapter 2 contains essential background information to assist practitioners in gaining a broader understanding of the political, social, religious and legal context impacting Somali refugee and displaced populations.

Chapter 3 gives a brief overview of the formal mental health services available to Somalis, primarily within Somalia.

Chapter 4 provides information on the role of culture and context in the presentation and expression of mental disorders and psychosocial distress, and how such beliefs are explained and understood within Somali cultural and religious belief systems.

Chapter 5 describes informal, religious and traditional healing practices in Somalia and health seeking behaviour among Somalis.

Chapter 6 provides final remarks and a concise summary of the main issues that were discussed in this document.

The reference list provides practitioners with key resources to further understand the issues contained herein.