Migrants

Migrants, especially forced migrants, experience higher levels of mental health concerns related to cultural adaptation, social integration, and potential stressors associated with migration experiences. However, migrants experience significant barriers because services are not adapted to their preferences and needs (e.g., language, help-seeking behaviours), legal status, and stigma.

To address this, ADVANCE will conduct parallel studies in Italy and in Denmark. We will build upon the work of the RE-DEFINE project, which demonstrated benefits of SH+ in reducing the frequency of mental health concerns among refugees in five countries in Europe. 

Interventions in Focus

Self Help Plus (SH+)

SH+ is WHO’s 5-session stress management course for large groups of up to 30 people that uses pre-recorded audio and an illustrated guide to teach stress management skill.

Person using a tablet

Migrants in Italy

Migrants in Italy often face unique mental health challenges as they navigate the complexities of relocation, cultural adaptation, and integration. The stressors associated with leaving one's homeland, coupled with potential language barriers and social isolation, can contribute to heightened levels of anxiety and depression among migrants. Additionally, experiences of discrimination and uncertainty about legal status may further impact their mental well-being. Access to mental health services is crucial, yet migrants may encounter barriers such as unfamiliarity with the healthcare system or fear of stigma. 

We will conduct a hybrid effectiveness-implementation RCT to compare delivery formats of in-person SH+ versus online DWM in Italy. 

Meet the team in Italy

Migrants in Denmark

In Denmark, regulations that limit the use of free interpreters, out-of-pocket costs to access psychological care, and the scarce training in cultural competencies among mental health providers hamper access to mental health care, particularly among immigrants who experience distress but do not fulfil the criteria for a mental disorder. Mental health interventions, such as SH+, are not offered. 

We will do an implementation study, focused on identifying how best to integrate SH+ into social housing with migrants in Denmark. 

Meet the team in Denmark