Photovoice: exploring immigrants and refugees' perceptions and access to mental health services in Winnipeg
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Date
2017
Authors
Sherzoi, Ogai
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Abstract
The deterioration of health status for immigrants and refugees is mostly observed after their arrival in Canada. Additionally, immigrant and refugee minorities are at a higher risk for mental health problems. Yet, refugees and immigrants in Canada, particularly those from non-European countries tend to underutilize community resources and mental health services. This study uses a participatory arts-based method of photovoice to gain deeper knowledge of the realities and lived experiences of immigrants and refugees who have or are dealing with mental health problems in Winnipeg. Additionally, it will shed light on the barriers faced by immigrant and refugee community, and the context in which they are unable to access services. Six immigrant and refugee individuals volunteered to participate in this photovoice project. The participants discussed structural barriers, non-recognition of non-Canadian credentials, underemployment/ unemployment, poverty, discrimination, stigma, language barriers, lack of culturally inclusive services, inequality, lack of social network, and marginalization. The findings have implications for social work and future research is discussed.
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Keywords
Photovoice, Mental health, Immigrants, Refugees, Access to services, Barriers, Non-recognition of non-Canadian credentials, Underemployment/ unemployment, Poverty, Discrimination, Stigma, Language barriers, Culturally inclusive services, Inequality, Social network, Hope and resiliency