Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Volume 14, Issue 9, 2015, Pages 1695-1701

Psychological impact of life as refugees: A pilot study on a Syrian Camp in Jordan (Article)

Basheti I.A.* , Qunaibi E.A. , Malas R.
  • a Applied Sciences University, PO Box 940344, Amman, 11194, Jordan
  • b Applied Sciences University, PO Box 940344, Amman, 11194, Jordan
  • c Applied Sciences University, PO Box 940344, Amman, 11194, Jordan

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate types and prevalence of psychological distresses endured by Syrian refugees at Alzatary Camp in Jordan. Methods: This observational study was conducted over a period of 2 months (November and December, 2012) at Alzatary Camp for Syrian refugees in Jordan. A validated questionnaire was filled by a field researcher to gather information on respondents’ living conditions, psychological distresses and perspectives of the medical care services provided. Results: The questionnaire was completed for 73 respondents with a mean age of 37.7 ± 11.2. A majority of refugees (63.3 %) lived in tents, and the rest in caravans. Some of the respondents (56 %) suffered from psychological distresses; 46 % believed that psychological therapy and support is needed, out of which 14.5 % reported receiving such therapy. Refugees staying in tents reported low satisfaction with the medical care services provided (54.2 % vs. 23.8 %) and great need for psychological support (66.7 % vs. 31.3 %) when compared to refugees staying in caravans. Conclusion: Syrian refugees at Alzatary Camp suffer from psychological distress that requires urgent attention. Current medical support is not sufficient, especially for refugees staying in tents. © Pharmacotherapy Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, 300001 Nigeria. All rights reserved.

Author Keywords

Alzatary Camp Jordan camps Mental health Psychological disorders Syrian refugees

Index Keywords

refugee Jordan Syrian Arab Republic human middle aged psychotherapy Young Adult male female pilot study observational study questionnaire refugee camp patient satisfaction prevalence Article adult distress syndrome community living outcome assessment medical care

Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84943303361&doi=10.4314%2ftjpr.v14i9.22&partnerID=40&md5=3bbdd20d70a019d587149802124a4330

DOI: 10.4314/tjpr.v14i9.22
ISSN: 15965996
Cited by: 8
Original Language: English