Mental Health Problems of Unaccompanied Young Refugees in Youth Welfare Institutions

Objective Within the present study we investigated prevalence rates of psychological symptoms in underage and full-age unaccompanied refugees in youth welfare institutions. Methods Sociodemographic characteristics and mental health problems in the areas of emotion and behavior were assessed using screening data from both self-reports and caregiver reports of 105 youths. Results Symptoms of depression (42%), behavior (35%) and posttraumatic stress (32%) were most frequently reported. There were no significant differences in frequencies of psychological symptoms between groups of underage and full-age unaccompanied refugees. Whereas youth reported more problems with peers, caregivers reported more psychological problems of youths in the areas of emotion, behavior, and hyperactivity. Conclusion The data underline the need for psychological interventions of young unaccompanied refugees.