World Refugee Day: Supporting Mental Well‑Being for Refugees

June 2025

Every year on June 20, the United Nations observes World Refugee Day to recognize the courage, resilience, and contributions of millions of refugees worldwide. While much focus is placed on the legal and humanitarian challenges faced by displaced people, the emotional and psychological toll of forced migration often remains unseen. This day offers an important opportunity to shed light on the mental health struggles refugees endure and the support they need to heal and thrive.

The Mental Health Impact of Forced Displacement

Refugees often endure extreme trauma before, during, and after their journeys — from exposure to violence, loss of loved ones, separation from communities, to the uncertainty of asylum processes. This prolonged stress can lead to high rates of:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Depression and Anxiety Disorders

• Sleep disturbances and somatic symptoms

Research indicates that refugees are up to five times more likely than the general population to suffer mental health conditions, with over 60% experiencing severe psychological distress at some point during displacement (Steel et al., 2009).

Moreover, many refugees struggle with acculturative stress — the challenge of adapting to new languages, cultures, and social norms — which compounds pre-existing trauma and isolation.

Barriers to Mental Health Care for Refugees

Despite the clear need, refugees often face substantial obstacles to accessing mental health services, including:

• Cultural and language barriers that make communication difficult.

• Limited availability of culturally competent providers.

• Fear or mistrust of institutions, especially among those who fled persecution.

• Stigma around mental illness in many cultures.

• Legal or financial challenges that restrict access to healthcare.

These factors contribute to widespread under-treatment, leaving many refugees without the support required for recovery.

Global Efforts and Healing Strategies

World Refugee Day also highlights efforts by international organizations like the UNHCR and World Health Organization (WHO) to integrate mental health into humanitarian responses. Some initiatives include:

• Embedding psychosocial support in refugee camps.

• Training community health workers in trauma-informed care.

• Promoting peer support groups and safe spaces for storytelling.

• Strengthening policies for mental health equity and inclusion in host countries.

Local grassroots groups also play a vital role. For example, organizations providing culturally sensitive counseling and legal aid can empower refugees to regain control over their mental health and futures.

How You Can Support Refugee Mental Health

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the mental health needs of refugees and share trusted resources.

2. Volunteer or Donate: Many nonprofits welcome volunteers or funds to expand mental health programs.

3. Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Support laws and initiatives that guarantee refugees' access to health and mental health services.

4. Foster Community Integration: Encourage welcoming attitudes and inclusion in your local area to combat isolation.

5. Raise Awareness: Join World Refugee Day events or campaigns that humanize refugee stories and highlight psychological resilience.

Conclusion

World Refugee Day calls on us not only to acknowledge the hardships of displacement but to commit to supporting the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. By prioritizing refugee mental health and amplifying their voices, we can help build bridges of healing and hope in communities worldwide.

References:

• Steel, Z., Chey, T., Silove, D., Marnane, C., Bryant, R. A., & van Ommeren, M. (2009). Association of torture and other potentially traumatic events with mental health outcomes among populations exposed to mass conflict and displacement: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA, 302(5), 537-549. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2009.1132

• UNHCR. (2023). Mental Health and Psychosocial Support. https://www.unhcr.org/mental-health-and-psychosocial-support.html

World Health Organization. (2021). Mental health of refugees and migrants. https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health#tab=tab_1