Exploration of Perceptions of Mental Health and Self-Stigma Related to Psychological Care Seeking Among Female Refugees From War-Torn Ukraine.
Rada Artzi-Medvedik, Yuliya Lozynska, Daria Kuperberg and 2 others
PMID 40109037WHAT IT FOUND
Ukrainian female refugees in the US described war-related anxiety, insomnia and shame about seeking mental health care.
They often coped through family, faith, work and staying busy, and preferred help only when severe.
Key findings
01Many women minimised or dismissed their mental health needs, saying they were safe, that time had passed, or that their experience was fleeting, so they did not need professional help.
02Cultural norms and self-stigma were central barriers: women preferred keeping problems inside and feared being seen as weak or sick.
03Practical access barriers were cost, insurance, language and not understanding the system, while some women appreciated routine mental health questions in healthcare.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
Only 21 Ukrainian women who chose to take part were interviewed, so the findings may not represent men, children, refugees outside the United States or women less willing to discuss mental health. Telephone interviews lasted about 25 minutes and did not capture facial expressions or longer narratives. The study describes perceptions and barriers; it does not test whether routine mental health questions, referrals or cultural training reduce stigma or improve care seeking.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflicts of interest. The study was funded by Ohio University.
The easy way to misread this
Do not conclude that routine mental health questions or referrals will reduce stigma or improve care seeking for Ukrainian refugees. This is a small descriptive study, not a trial.