The aims of this study were to explore individual and collective understandings
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interviews were undertaken and themes were identified using Interpretative
Phenomenological Analysis. Themes included resilience and protection; identity
and beliefs; and concealment, distancing and secrets; which reflected
acculturation, Islamic and Somali cultures. Spirit possession was explored in
relation to culture and religion, mental health, protection and treatment. The
women ‘get on’, cope with life, and value support from
family, services and religion. However, the pressures to navigate conflicting
and changing cultural and religious positions, and to conceal distress,
frustrate accessing support. The young Somali refugees’ understandings
of mental health and psychological well-being provide an insight for clinicians
into the complexities of approaching services for help, and developing shared
understandings transculturally. Clinically, the findings raise the paradox of
how Somali women value support, yet also value concealment and fear disclosures.
The variation and tensions reflected in the data from a small number of women
highlight the importance of not stereotyping refugees, but exploring their
individual beliefs and providing a range of service options.
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