Improving Mental Health Care in the United States: Congolese Refugees – Ann Hourigan
Abstract
Having a mental health care system that is set up to support all citizens, and specifically the most vulnerable populations, greatly benefits the prosperity of this country, while valuing every individual’s wellbeing and success. This paper highlights the need for quality mental health services for refugees in the United States. My case study focuses on Congolese refugees specifically, which is the largest refugee population in the US. Contrasting U.S. and Congolese perspectives on mental health, I spotlight the multicultural perspective refugees may bring to the topic of mental health. When reflecting on the United States history of refugee admission and assistance, insight about the systems’ effects on mental health are evident. Improvement for these therapeutic and psychosocial interventions available to refugees includes training mental health professionals to use culturally adapted practices. Congolese refugee community organizations around the country have communicated mental healthcare disparities and advocated for change, which further emphasizes the agency Congolese refugees should have related to their wellbeing.