Enhancing the mental health of refugees and asylum seekers through music interventions

Refugees and asylum seekers often experience significant mental health issues due to the adverse conditions and traumatic events they have been exposed to in their country of origin and during their journey to safety. Additionally, in the country where they have sought refuge, factors such as uncertainty about their status, language barriers, prejudice, stigmatisation and discrimination may compound their psychological distress and mental health issues. Enhancing their mental health requires tailored and innovative therapeutic interventions that address the specific challenges they may encounter and consider their cultural background. Music interventions have emerged as a promising method of promoting mental health and well-being in these vulnerable population groups. This article discusses how the mental health of refugees and asylum seekers can be enhanced by music interventions and how mental health nurses working in community settings can contribute towards achieving this.