International Journal of Mental Health Nursing
Volume 27, Issue 1, 2018, Pages 448-454

Lethal hopelessness: Understanding and responding to asylum seeker distress and mental deterioration (Article) (Open Access)

Procter N.G.* , Kenny M.A. , Eaton H. , Grech C.
  • a School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia, Perth, WA, Australia, Mental Health and Substance Use Research Group, Adelaide, SA, Australia
  • b School of Law, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
  • c School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia, Perth, WA, Australia, Mental Health and Substance Use Research Group, Adelaide, SA, Australia
  • d School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia, Perth, WA, Australia

Abstract

The mental deterioration of the so called ‘legacy caseload’ (asylum seekers who arrived in Australia by boat between August 2012–December 2013) has become a national concern and is garnering international attention. Prolonged uncertainty is contributing to mental deterioration and despair. There have been at least 11 deaths by suicide since June 2014. Social support services have been limited and legal assistance in short supply; this is associated with lengthy delays with visa applications. Thwarted belongingness, purpose and identity, a shortage of available services, and barriers to legal support for processes attendant upon Refugee Status Determination increase the likelihood that the mental health of asylum seekers will deteriorate further, potentially developing into worsening decline, which will lead to increased self-harm and suicide. This article summarises recent suicide deaths in Australia, positing practical assistance and support for asylum seekers living in the community. Therapeutic engagement should be trauma-informed wherever possible, helping asylum seekers to reframe their sense of lethal hopelessness. © 2017 Australian College of Mental Health Nurses Inc.

Author Keywords

Suicide Self-harm Mental health Asylum seeker visa application Refugee

Index Keywords

male Stress, Psychological mental stress Humans adult refugee Self-Injurious Behavior hope Australia automutilation Mental Disorders mental disease Young Adult human Suicide Refugees psychology
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85040369611&doi=10.1111%2finm.12325&partnerID=40&md5=462fcca244a8028ebe45f6473802c892
DOI: 10.1111/inm.12325
ISSN: 14458330
Cited by: 5
Original Language: English