Discussion and conclusion

• Pages: 52-56

52 - EASO Mental health of applicants for internatio nal protection in Europe

5.Discussion and conclusion

Respondents participating in the surveydid not only share chall engesbut alsoprovided several

recommendationson how to ensure more effectiveness in preventingmental health concerns ofapplicants

and how to respond to their needs. According to participants, a good number of applicants present with

mental health concerns due to exposure to traumatic events in their country of origin. These concerns are

exacerbated by prolonged asylum procedures, lack of staff to respond appropriately, lack of access to

applicants in need in accelerated procedures,overcrowded reception facilities, placement in detention and

lack ofaccess to relevant information. Responde nts agreed that a stronger focusshould be placedon

prevention of mental health concerns in applicants instead of response only. This can, however, only be

successful when sufficient investments are made in nationalasylum systems, in terms of human resources,

direct service provision, development of streamlined procedures a nd providing appropriate space for

reception.

5.1Recommendations

In terms of resources, it was suggested to address the needs of vulnerable applicants in a timely mannerand

support with meaningful interventions while keeping prevention of mental health concerns at the core.

Recently someAMIF/EU funded projects have started to help, for examplewith early recognition of mental

health issues at the reception centres. Additonal funding for similar projects was considered usefulby

respondents.

On an organisationallevel, strongcommitment and i nvestment by authorities into reception and staff in

general was suggested. A need for moreflexibility in terms of scheduling work was stressed, which should be

linked to the identified needs of theapplicants. The importance of access to applicants in detention by

specialists (e.g. psychologist, psychiatrists etc.) was highlighted. Further,clear protocols, SOPs, clear job

descriptions to avoid overlaps by staff working in this field needs attention. Inv estment in staff wellbeing

was highlightedand lastly, the availability of interpreters to support professionals in their workneeds

stronger consideration.

In terms of expertiseanda skilled workforce,trainingcourses on an ethical work appro ach(as it relates to

code of conduct and accountability) were sug gested as well as training in both psychiatric and non-

psychiatric emergencies. Stress and anger managementrelated training mod ules were seen useful for first-

line workers and a general information package on migration and a sylum for specific specialists such as

medical doctors, psychiatrists and psychologists, who support in providing medicalcertification for

applicants wasseen as crucial. Support sessions on how to keep the balance betweeninformation needed

for the purpose of the personalinterview and not further t raumatisingthe applicant were discussion points

‘The behaviour of applicants we work with affects us.’