Mental Health Challenges and Barriers to Care Among Arab Refugees: A Scoping Review of US and Canadian Studies.

Introduction: Displacement due to conflict is a hallmark of humanitarian crises and traumatized survivors face unique health challenges. The purpose of this study is to investigate the health factors impacting Arab refugees in the United States and Canada, with a focus on the mental health challenges that further complicate the health care experiences of this vulnerable population.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted using a protocol based on the Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. We established eligibility criteria for selecting original peer-reviewed articles published in English between January 1, 1990 and December 31, 2024. The search utilized five databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL Complete, and ProQuest). We selected 31 articles based on study criteria.

Results: The literature consistently highlights a high burden of mental health disorders among Arab refugees-particularly posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, despite insurance coverage, psychological service utilization remains low due to systemic health barriers.

Conclusion: Arab refugees in the United States and Canada face significant mental health challenges that are compounded by barriers such as stigma, language obstacles, and inadequate access to culturally sensitive care. Addressing these specific needs can improve health outcomes at both individual and community levels.