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Health to me means more than just not being sick. It's about feeling good physically, mentally, and socially. It is like having a balanced and happy life where your body, mind, and the people around you all get along. Real health is not just about not having problems or diseases. It's about being able to grow, learn, and enjoy life.

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Multiculturalism in Australia is a cornerstone of the nation's identity, celebrating the rich diversity of cultures that have contributed to its vibrant society (Davies, 2020). Embracing a policy of inclusivity and respect for all backgrounds, Australia acknowledges and values the various ethnicities, languages, traditions, and religions that coexist within its borders.

Davies, T. L. (2020). “But we’re not a multicultural school”: Local spaces, cultural difference and the challenges of intercultural education at one Australian secondary school (Doctoral dissertation, Monash University). https://scholar.archive.org/work/3opqizbhofhuzamq7fuuo6bsaa/access/wayback/https://au-east.erc.monash.edu.au/fpfiles/26844920/AMMENDEDFINAL.pdf

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While Victoria offers a range of support services, including settlement assistance, language education, and healthcare access, these communities often face challenges such as navigating complex immigration processes, securing stable housing, and finding employment opportunities.

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Social Determinants and Migrant/Refugee Health

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Social Determinants and Migrant/Refugee Health

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Income and Social Protection: In Australia, the relationship between income and social protection significantly impacts the health of migrants and refugees. Upon arrival, many asylum seekers and refugees face economic challenges due to limited opportunities for employment. This marginalized economic status, coupled with potential trauma from their migration journey, can lead to increased financial hardship (Torlinska et al., 2020).

Education: Education plays a pivotal role in the health and well-being of migrants and refugees in Australia. With 45% of young people being either first or second-generation migrants, it is evident that education is a critical factor in successful settlement outcomes (MYAN, n.d.). Newly arrived students face the additional challenge of adapting to a new country, language, culture, and educational system while navigating the typical developmental tasks of childhood and adolescence.

Access to Affordable Health Services of Decent Quality: Access to affordable health services of decent quality is a critical factor in the well-being of migrants and refugees in Australia. Upon arrival, refugees are linked with resettlement agencies that assist in navigating the healthcare system. They also have access to Medicare Benefit Schedule item numbers for a refugee health assessment within the first 12 months. However, challenges persist, particularly for those who have experienced prolonged detention, trauma, or poor care in their home countries (Au et al., 2019). The lack of a coordinated national policy further complicates the situation.

Au, M., Anandakumar, A. D., Preston, R., Ray, R. A., & Davis, M. (2019). A model explaining refugee experiences of the Australian healthcare system: a systematic review of refugee perceptions. BMC international health and human rights, 19, 1-23. https://bmcinthealthhumrights.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12914-019-0206-6

MYAN. (n.d.). Education and students from refugee and migrant backgrounds. Retrieved from Foundation House: https://myan.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/education_issue_05.pdf

Torlinska, J., Albani, V., & Brown, H. (2020). Financial hardship and health in a refugee population in Australia: A longitudinal study. Journal of migration and health, 1, 100030. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8352014/

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Syrian culture is characterized by its deep-rooted history, diverse traditions, and warm hospitality. The country's ancient heritage has left a profound mark on its architecture, with stunning archaeological sites like Palmyra and Aleppo's citadel. Arabic is the predominant language, and Islam plays a central role in daily life, influencing customs, cuisine, and festivities.

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Principal Health Issues for Refugees from Syria

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Principal Health Issues for Refugees from Syria

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Mental Health and Trauma:

Issue: Refugees from Syria may have experienced significant trauma, including exposure to violence, loss of loved ones, and displacement from their homes (Atari-Khan et al., 2021). This can lead to various mental health issues such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

Treatment Option: A culturally sensitive approach to mental health care is crucial. This may involve trauma-informed therapy, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and psychosocial support. Additionally, providing information about local mental health services and support groups can be beneficial.

Nutritional Concerns:

Issue: Refugees may have faced food insecurity and malnutrition during their journey or in refugee camps (Saeedullah et al., 2021). Upon arrival, they may be at risk of nutritional deficiencies.

Treatment Option: Access to a balanced diet is crucial. Providing culturally appropriate food options, along with nutrition education, can help refugees re-establish their health. In some cases, dietary supplements may be recommended to address specific deficiencies.

Infectious Diseases:

Issue: Due to the often precarious conditions in which refugees live during their journey, there is an increased risk of infectious diseases (Greenaway & Castelli, 2019). This includes communicable diseases like tuberculosis, hepatitis, and potentially vaccine-preventable illnesses.

Treatment Option: A comprehensive health screening should be conducted upon arrival. This may include blood tests, chest X-rays, and immunizations. Timely administration of necessary vaccines, provision of appropriate medications (if needed), and health education about infection prevention are crucial steps.

Atari-Khan, R., Covington, A. H., Gerstein, L. H., Herz, H. A., Varner, B. R., Brasfield, C., ... & Deogracias-Schleich, A. (2021). Concepts of resilience among trauma-exposed Syrian refugees. The Counseling Psychologist, 49(2), 233-268. https://doi.org/10.1177/0011000020970522

Greenaway, C., & Castelli, F. (2019). Infectious diseases at different stages of migration: an expert review. Journal of travel medicine, 26(2), taz007. https://doi.org/10.1093/jtm/taz007

Saeedullah, A., Khan, M. S., Andrews, S. C., Iqbal, K., Ul-Haq, Z., Qadir, S. A., ... & Shahzad, M. (2021). Nutritional status of adolescent Afghan refugees living in peshawar, Pakistan. Nutrients, 13(9), 3072. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13093072

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The music played by the Syrian people is a rich tapestry of cultural influences, reflecting the country's diverse history and heritage. Traditional Syrian music encompasses a wide range of styles, including classical Arabic music, folk music from various regions, and Bedouin nomadic melodies.

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In my nursing practice, I wholeheartedly embrace Competency Standard 12 from Domain 7: Professional Practice. This standard encapsulates the essence of cultural responsiveness, reflexivity, and self-awareness in all aspects of healthcare provision (MIGRANT & REFUGEE WOMEN’S HEALTH PARTNERSHIP, 2019). Competency Standard 12.1 underscores the significance of recognizing our own cultural values, beliefs, and biases, and understanding how they influence our interactions in healthcare settings. It reminds us to approach each patient with an open heart and an open mind, free from preconceptions. I make it a point to engage in regular self-reflection. This involves taking time to ponder over my own cultural background, values, and beliefs, and contemplating how they might impact the care I deliver, particularly to individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. This self-awareness helps me provide care that is sensitive to the unique needs and perspectives of each patient. Moreover, I am committed to ongoing education and training in cultural competence. I seek out resources, attend workshops, and engage in discussions with colleagues to deepen my understanding of different cultures and how they intersect with healthcare. This continuous learning process enables me to adapt my approach and provide more tailored and effective care to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

MIGRANT & REFUGEE WOMEN’S HEALTH PARTNERSHIP. (2019). Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice: Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds. Retrieved from https://culturaldiversityhealth.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Culturally-responsive-clinical-practice-Working-with-people-from-migrant-and-refugee-backgrounds-Jan2019.pdf

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Syrian cuisine is a tantalizing fusion of flavors, reflecting the country's rich culinary history and diverse cultural influences. Staples like rice, wheat, and legumes form the foundation of many dishes. Aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon are skillfully used, infusing dishes with a distinctive warmth and depth. Olive oil is a cornerstone ingredient, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value. Mezze, a collection of small, flavorful dishes, is a cherished tradition, featuring delights like hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel. Kebabs and shawarma showcase the Syrian penchant for succulent grilled meats, often paired with vibrant salads and pickled vegetables.

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Syrian art, deeply rooted in a history stretching back millennia, is a testament to the country's rich cultural tapestry. It encompasses a wide array of forms, including ancient artifacts, Islamic calligraphy, and contemporary expressions. Intricate mosaics from sites like Palmyra and Apamea showcase the artistic prowess of ancient Syrians, while medieval Islamic art, with its geometric patterns and intricate tilework, reveals a profound mastery of aesthetics.