In the period from May 2007 to May 2009 there were a total of 75 immigrants referred for psychiatric care at the Supporting Survivors of Torture and Trauma, Adelaide. A clinical audit of case notes and qualitative methods using in-depth case studies, participation observation and key informant interviews were used to evaluate the effectiveness of traditional methods. There were 52 males (69%) and 23 females (31%). Average age was 40 years with a range of 19-70 years. The majority had depression (77%), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (63%), anxiety including panic disorders and somatisation. Eighteen (24%) had both depression and PTSD. In combination with medication, exposure therapy and psychosocial support, the majority of Islamic clients benefitted from Dhikir (88%). Qualitative ethnography suggests that Dhikir was culturally appropriate and effective in these settings. Cultural relaxation methods are useful adjuncts in posttrauma therapy. They are cheap, non-pharmacological, safe and non-toxic with no adverse effects and culturally acceptable. © 2010 Taylor & Francis.

Cultural relaxation methods Post-traumatic stress disorders Refugees Islam Torture

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