On International Mental Health Day, Panos Mylonas, a psychologist with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in Athens, highlights the deep mental health crisis faced by refugees and migrants in Greece. He emphasizes the emotional toll of the asylum-seeking process, which often requires individuals to continuously justify their suffering to access basic rights like safety.
Many migrants and refugees arrive in Greece with traumatic backgrounds, having faced violence, torture, and imprisonment. Panos notes that the additional trauma encountered during their journey exacerbates complex mental health issues. Common struggles include suicidal thoughts, severe anxiety, and hopelessness, fueled by an uncertain future as many await the processing of their asylum claims.
Healthcare access is a significant concern, particularly when asylum claims are denied. Panos explains that a negative response often results in the loss of essential medical services, worsening the mental health crisis. He insists on the importance of uninterrupted healthcare access, regardless of the asylum outcome, to prevent individuals from falling deeper into despair.
Unaccompanied minors represent one of the most vulnerable groups among migrants and refugees. Stripped of family support, these young people often face a sudden withdrawal of assistance upon turning 18, leading to a difficult transition into adulthood.
MSF provides critical mental health support to these individuals, offering a safe space for them to be heard and respected. However, the demand for services greatly exceeds the organization’s capacity. Many patients have complex needs requiring long-term care that MSF struggles to sustain.
Panos advocates for faster asylum processing, improved living conditions in camps, and greater community support to enhance the integration of migrants. He calls for increased awareness among the Greek population regarding the struggles faced by refugees and for more resources to provide continuous healthcare access, even for those who receive negative asylum claims.
Since 1996, MSF has been active in providing medical and humanitarian aid to migrants and refugees in Greece. In 2024, their mental health services have reached over 1,900 individuals, addressing issues such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression, often triggered by violence and difficult living conditions.
The ongoing crisis emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems to address the mental health challenges faced by refugees and migrants in Greece, highlighting the urgent call for community awareness and integration strategies.