Psychosocial well-being and mental health of low- and middle-income countries’ internally displaced persons and refugees during COVID-19: a systematic literature review
2024

Mental Health of Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons During COVID-19

Sample size: 65 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Amodu Oluwakemi, Janes Craig R., Pangan Karen Therese L.

Primary Institution: University of Alberta

Hypothesis

What were the psychosocial- and mental health-related experiences of refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons who have migrated between low- and middle-income countries during the pandemic period?

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant negative impact of COVID-19 on the mental health and psychosocial well-being of refugees and internally displaced persons in low- and middle-income countries.

Supporting Evidence

  • COVID-19 has exacerbated preexisting mental health issues among refugees and internally displaced persons.
  • Community-based support networks are overextended and struggle to meet the needs of vulnerable populations.
  • Digital healthcare solutions have potential but face challenges related to accessibility and digital literacy.

Takeaway

This study shows that COVID-19 made life harder for refugees and displaced people, affecting their mental health and well-being.

Methodology

A systematic literature review was conducted to assess the mental health and psychosocial well-being of refugees and internally displaced persons during COVID-19.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from the limited scope of studies included, focusing primarily on single-country case studies.

Limitations

The review is limited by the availability of peer-reviewed research on the topic, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Participant Demographics

The studies included refugees and internally displaced persons from various low- and middle-income countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1017/gmh.2024.110

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