Mental Health and Wellbeing of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Serbia: 5 years data trends

Abstract

In 2021, 96% of refugees experienced at least one trauma during their travel. Traumatic events in transit changed, but overall did not decrease over the last 5 years. Psychological screening shows that 85% of refugees are vulnerable in regard to their mental health, i.e. in need of psychological assistance and support. In comparison to previous years, all indicators of mental health and resilience took on a negative turn – with more people experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and traumarelated stress. furthermore, lower coping capacities have been documented, with this all leading to higher number of refugees in acute distress and in need for immediate psychological support.