Mental Health and Experiences of Deportees from Libya Resident in the Techiman and Nkoranza South Municipalities

Abstract

This study sought to assess the mental health and experiences of deportees from Libya resident in the Techiman and Nkoranza South Municipalities. Specifically, it sought to examine the prevalence of mental health disorders among deportees in the study area, appraise the challenges faced by deportees, assessing the social support services available to deportees and the coping strategies adopted by these deportees. Quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques were used. The study used structured questionnaire (n =169) and in-depth interviews (IDIs =30) to collect data from deportees and key informants. The results of the data analysis showed that, deportees from Libya living in Techiman and Nkoranza South Municipalities suffer various degrees of mental health disorders (Depression, anxiety, suicide ideation). These mental health disorders are made worse by stigma, unemployment, loss of investments and lack of decent accommodation. Lack of proper social support from relevant agencies to improve the well being of the deportees in the study area is a major issue, which could precipitate mental health problems. Healthy coping strategies adopted by deportees will go a long way to improve the mental health state of deportees in the Techiman and Nkoranza South Municipalities. It is therefore recommended that the relevant institutions must engage the services of professional counselors to counsel the deportees upon arrival to help reduce stress and the possibility of developing mental health disorders. Government must strengthen social support services championed by the social welfare and other relevant institutions in areas noted to have high number of deportees.