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Supporting the Mental Health of Sudanese Refugees in Australia

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Supporting the Mental Health of Sudanese Refugees in Australia

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Sudanese refugees are likely to face significant stressors after resettling in Australia, this can include socio-cultural adjustments, unemployment, housing issues, and challenges with social support networks. These factors can significantly affect their mental health (Savic et al., 2016).

When Sudanese refugees first arrive in Australia, it is so important to assess their mental health and overall well-being. However, accurate assessments may take time as trust and rapport are established. Support strategies can include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating well, staying physically active, prioritizing sleep, and seeking support from friends, religious figures, or counsellors (Refugee Health Guide, 2024).

Remember, a healthy body supports a healthy life! By addressing these needs, we can contribute to better mental health outcomes for Sudanese refugees.

References

Savic, M., Chur-Hansen, A., Mahmood, M. A., & Moore, V. M. (2016). ‘We don’t have to go and see a special person to solve this problem’: Trauma, mental health beliefs and processes for addressing ‘mental health issues’ among Sudanese refugees in Australia. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 62(1), 76-83. https://doi.org/10.1177/0020764015595664

Refugee Health Guide. (2024). Mental health. Refugee Health Guide. https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/mental-health/

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With most Sudanese people being Muslim, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar is known as the Holy month which is when Ramadan begins (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2024). Ramadan is a sacred time for Muslims, during this month they believe that they can strengthen their connection with God through prayer, fasting, and self-reflection (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2024). One of the Five Pillars of Islam is Sawm, this involves fasting from sunrise to sunset throughout the month of Ramadan. Some individuals, such as children, the elderly, or those who are ill, may be exempt from fasting (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2024). Those who cannot fast are expected to assist in feeding the poor or make up the missed days later on (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2024). The purpose of Sawm is to foster self-restraint and generosity (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2024). During Ramadan, Muslims are also opposed from sexual activity and avoid immoral behaviours like gossiping and lying (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2024). The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a festive celebration lasting three days, known as the "feast of fast breaking" (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2024).

References

Britannica, T. (2024). Editors of Encyclopaedia. Ramadan. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ramadan

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1.2 Clinicians recognise the impact of refugee-like experiences, including experiences of traumatic events and post-traumatic stress disorder, and take these experiences into account during the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care to modify their approach as appropriate and to provide trauma-informed care (Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership, 2019).

It is crucial for all clinicians to understand the significance of individuals past experiences and any traumatic events, as these can profoundly impact their future well-being. I have developed a deep empathy for refugees, recognizing the immense challenges they face, not only in dealing with traumatic events in their home countries but also in leaving behind their families and support networks to settle in a new country. Learning about the support systems available to refugees has emphasized the importance of accessible help and resources.

I am committed to assisting refugees in finding the support they need to facilitate a smoother and less stressful adjustment. By providing informed and compassionate care, I aim to contribute to their well-being and integration into their new environments.

References

Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership. (2019). Culturally responsive clinical practice: Working with people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. 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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Social inclusion and non-discrimination WHO

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Social inclusion and non-discrimination WHO

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Being a refugee in Australia, individuals may face various social determinants of health, including issues related to social inclusion and non-discrimination (World Health Organization, 2024). It is crucial for refugees to feel integrated into Australian society; otherwise, their mental health can suffer immensely (Australian Human Rights Commission, 2023). Experiencing discrimination can lead to poor mental and physical health. For refugees to feel connected and valued, it is essential that they have access to opportunities to work, learn, engage, and participate in their communities (Australian Human Rights Commission, 2023).

References

World Health Organization. (2024). Social determinants of health. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1

Australian Human Rights Commission. (2023). Social inclusion and human rights in Australia. Australian Human Rights Commission. https://humanrights.gov.au/about/news/speeches/social-inclusion-and-human-rights-australia

Talentum HR. (2023). Social inclusion and non-discrimination.

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Sudanese culture is incredibly diverse, with lots of traditional music and dance that reflects their values (Essien & Falola, 2008). Traditional Sudanese musical instruments are crafted from materials like metal and wood, drums are made from animal skin (Essien & Falola, 2008). In traditional Sudanese festivities, music, dance, singing, and clapping all play important roles, contributing to vibrant celebrations (Essien & Falola, 2008).

References

Essien, K., & Falola, T. (2008). Music and dance. In Culture and customs of Sudan (pp. 161). Bloomsbury Publishing USA. https://books.google.com.au/books?id=in7DEAAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false

AA Boka Tv. (2024). Sudan music [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/XcSQbI9yZ2g

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Hulu Mur is a traditional soft drink enjoyed in Sudan during Ramadan. The name 'Hulu Mur' translates to "sweet bitter" (Abdelhalim et al., 2023). This drink is made from fermented flour that comes from sorghum bicolor, a type of cereal grain. The process involves making dough from the sorghum, fermenting it, and then cooking it into thin, pasta-like sheets. These sheets are soaked in water for about 1.5 hours to create the final beverage (Agab, 1985).

Traditional Sudanese cuisine is known for its fresh produce rather than relying heavily on spices (Hopkins, 2007). One staple is Kisra, a thin, pancake-like bread that is perfect for soaking up sauces from traditional stews (Cultural Diversity Resources, 2014). Men and women normally sit apart for mealtimes (MAS Diversicare, 2021).

References

Agab, M. A. (1985). Fermented food products ‘Hulu Mur’ drink made from Sorghum bicolor. Food Microbiology, 2(2), 147-155. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0740-0020(85)80007-1

Abdelhalim, T. S., Abdalla, A. A. A., Sir Elkhatim, K. A., Othman, M. H., Mohammed Alkhair, T. M. A., & Almaiman, S. A. (2023). Indigenous Sudanese sorghum‐based food: Secondary metabolites and antioxidant activities of traditional Sudanese nonalcoholic beverage Hulu‐mur from two sorghum landraces. Food Science & Nutrition, 11(6). https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.3275

Hopkins, P. (2007). Kenana handbook of Sudan (1st ed.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203823873

Cultural Diversity Resources. (2014). The South Sudanese people: Culinary traditions. https://www.culturaldiversityresources.org/single-post/spotlight-on-culture-39

MAS Diversicare. (2021). Cultural fact sheet: Sudanese. https://www.diversicare.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Cultural-Fact-Sheet_SUDANESE.pdf

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The current population of Sudan is 43 million people (MAS Diversicare, 2021). Sudan and South Sudan are two separate countries, with Sudan splitting from South Sudan in 2011 after decades of civil conflict (MAS Diversicare, 2021). Arabic is the national language of Sudan, though English and African languages are also spoken (MAS Diversicare, 2021). In Sudanese culture, a handshake signifies acceptance, respect, and a warm welcome (MAS Diversicare, 2021). It is considered disrespectful to address an older person solely by their name you should use the titles “haj” for men and “haja” for women as this is a sign of respect (MAS Diversicare, 2021).

References

MAS Diversicare. (2021). Cultural fact sheet: Sudanese. https://www.diversicare.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Cultural-Fact-Sheet_SUDANESE.pdf