Exploration of Perceptions of Mental Health and Self-Stigma Related to Psychological Care Seeking Among Female Refugees From War-Torn Ukraine

Introduction: War, displacement, and relocation are traumatic events affecting mental health and require professional attention. As the war in Ukraine continues, the mental health needs of refugees persist. Aim: To explore Ukrainian refugees' perceived mental health, self-stigma related to psychological care-seeking, and mental health services utilisation. Method: A mixed-methods study was conducted using semi-structured interviews and self-stigma surveys of twenty-one Ukrainian refugee women who relocated to the United States and shared their experiences. Results: Five themes were identified: perception and knowledge of mental health and illness; impact of war on mental health; self-management; finding inner peace; and seeking mental health services. Additionally, participants demonstrated a high likelihood of self-stigma. Discussion: Understanding refugees' perceptions and reducing self-stigma related to mental health can be important for promoting psychological care seeking. Limitations: Including only female refugees who were interested in participating increased the risk of self-selection bias. Implications: These findings inform nurses and other healthcare professionals of the unique mental health needs of Ukrainian female refugees to support culturally sensitive and appropriate mental health care. Recommendations: It is imperative to conduct similar research with male refugees, particularly with those who have been exposed to combat, to identify and mitigate mental health problems.