Mental Health Interventions in Canada for Migrants Affected by State-Sanctioned Violence: An Effectiveness Study

This paper aims to describe the effectiveness of mental health interventions for migrants affected by extreme political violence. It is a literature review and synthesis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) interventions for Canadian-landed migrants who have been affected by state-sanctioned violence. Conceptualisations of trauma in current mental health systems may not be appropriate for this group. Psychosocial processes of migration, settlement, and belonging may compound original traumas. Effective interventions highlight community partnership, social support, with emphasis on citizenship and reciprocity. This study contributes to greater understanding about the impact of state-sanctioned violence on mental health, and identifies approaches by which traumatic stress for migrants may be treated.