Afghan Community Mental Health Study
Project Name: Evaluating the Mental Health and Psychosocial Needs of Afghans Recently Resettled in the United States
This project, implemented in partnership with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, evaluated the mental health and psychosocial needs of Afghans recently resettled in the United States. Through formative mixed methods research, this study aimed to provide evidence-based recommendations for improving legal, social, and service responses to better meet the needs of Afghan communities.
Afghan immigrants and refugees to the U.S. have diverse needs, including access to mental health services. This project sought to understand their mental health needs, primary support sources (such as family, community, and religious organizations), and cultural norms around informal and formal services. Situating mental health within the resettlement context—considering factors such as financial or housing insecurity, legal threats, bereavement, social isolation, and discrimination—can help identify both direct solutions (e.g., housing) and targeted interventions (e.g., bereavement support).
CIRH’s Refugee Health Support Team members supported this project, including Esra Saleh, MBBS, MPH, Rafiullah Sadiq, MD, MICHA, and Zarmina Wardak. Research activities included:
Household survey: Open to the Afghan community members
In-depth interviews: Open to Afghan community members and those who work closely with them
Focus group: Open to Afghan community members and those who work closely with the community