Beyond survival: Understanding and addressing the mental health needs of displaced populations in conflict settings

During wars and conflicts, displaced people face significant mental health challenges at different stages of the displacement process. This scoping review aims to synthesize the existing literature on the psychological impact of war and displacement, the mental health challenges facing displaced populations, and spot the light on strategies needed to address these challenges. Literature search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, focusing on peer-reviewed articles, reports, and reviews published in English using relevant terms and keywords. Data focusing on the mental health of individuals from conflict zones were summarized. Displaced populations face a myriad of mental health challenges, exacerbated by factors like family separation, social isolation, financial instability, and unemployment. Key barriers to accessing mental health services include logistical and cultural hindrances. Tele-mental health can serve as a viable alternative to face-to-face assessments in conflict-affected areas. Addressing mental health needs requires a culturally sensitive, multifaceted approach, considering unique experiences and barriers to care in conflict-affected populations.