Lost in Translation: The experiences of young people of immigrant backgrounds with mental health and services in Finland

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Noora Abou Askar, Naima Osman “Lost in Translation” - The experiences of young people of immigrant backgrounds with mental health and services in Finland 67 pages, 4 attachments Published April 2023 Diaconia University of Applied Sciences Bachelor’s Degree Programme of Social Services Bachelor of Social Services

This research-based thesis aims to comprehend the experiences and factors impacting the mental health of young people of immigrant background in Finland, particularly in connection to their use of mental health services. The data collection for this thesis was achieved through conducting an online survey of the young people of immigrant background in Finland, through social media platforms and the support of the work-life partner MIELI Without Borders. The survey was created through combining the information and knowledge from academic journals connected to the topic of mental health with information regarding the impact of immigrant background on the quality of mental health support young people would receive. This was done in order to provide a carefully considered and constructive survey. The survey collected 34 respondents.

The primary conclusion was that while the experiences of young persons of immigrant background in connection to mental health varied (both personal experience towards mental health and the quality of support received), culture, and language in particular, was a large factor affecting their experiences negatively and leading to consequential suppression of negative emotions. Language barriers limited accessibility and the observed link to positive experiences with mental health services was fluency in Finnish.

The main goal of this research was to make a positive impact on the sector's ability to provide mental health services in terms of offering providers of such services the resources they need to support young people of immigrant backgrounds. Furthermore, this research focuses on promoting open communication on mental health and its importance in fostering mental well-being within immigrant communities, which can effectively reduce the stigma associated with talking about mental health.

Keywords: Young people, Immigrant background, Mental Health, Mental Health Services, Expression, Finnish Healthcare, Culture, Language Barriers.