C1. Supporting Newcomer, Immigrants and Refugees from Racialized Communities with Mental Health Issues
Level: Introductory / Intermediate
Settlement workers are often the first service providers who see newcomer immigrants and refugees. They need to learn how to identify those who are experiencing mental health problems. The participants will learn the early warning signs of mental health problems and gain new knowledge of some of the common mental health disorders. Recent studies conducted by Across Boundaries such as the “ Mental Health Needs of Seniors from Racialized Groups” and “Examining the Mental Health Impact of Discrimination, Torture and Migration for Racialized Groups, will be briefly presented. The recommendations from these studies will help settlement workers understand what role they play in assisting individuals meet their mental health needs. A holistic approach to mental health care within an anti-racism/anti-oppression framework will be demonstrated through case studies
Martha Ocampo is the former Co-director of Programs and Services at Across Boundaries (AB), now the Manager for Education and Resource. She played a key role in developing the Centre’s Holistic Model of Care within an Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression Framework that integrates indigenous practices, art, politics, spirituality and community involvement in developing services and programs that enhance healing and recovery. Martha developed a Leadership and Advocacy Training for marginalized groups and has a long history of providing educational and training workshops at mental health agencies, colleges, universities and the general public.
