Awareness and preferences on mental health amongst palestinian refugees in Lebanon: A qualitative study

There are over 400,000 Palestinian refugees registered with UNRWA in Lebanon and approximately 240,000 refugees access healthcare through UNRWA's health centers. It is estimated that 20% of Palestinian refugees are suffering from mental health distress. In 2010, UNRWA Lebanon began the implementation of a comprehensive health care reform, which included examining the possibility of introducing mental health services at the primary healthcare level. Qualitative methods were used to gain insight into the population's understanding of mental health and service preferences.

Three focus groups were conducted in each of the 5 regions of Lebanon, totaling 15 groups. In each area, one group consisted of male camp residents, one of female residents, and one group of nurses working in the camp's clinic. Discussion topics included defining mental health, causes of mental illness, stigma, awareness of existing services, and preferences for future services. Data saturation was quickly achieved. Focus group data was transcribed and analyzed using immersion; basic coding was used to identify common themes in participant remarks within and across all groups.

A clear definition of mental health was lacking in the group discussion. Awareness of existing services was mixed and generally differed by gender, camp location and community dynamics, as did preferences for new services. Participants were aware of the stigma associated with mental illness, but further perpetuated it and did not have practical solutions.Participants expressed interest in learning more about mental health, coping techniques, as well as discipline and abuse. Findings allow for recommendations for service provision.