Meaning-making of mental health among reception center clients in Finland

Asylum seekers and refugees face significant challenges, including high rates of mental health issues, as they navigate unfamiliar societal systems and norms. However, little is known about their subjective experiences of mental health and the mental health support in everyday social encounters. This study aims to explore the meaning-making of mental health and the experiences of receiving mental health support among clients of Finnish reception centers (FRCs).Semi-structured individual in-person interviews were conducted with 11 reception center clients from various locations in Finland, with an interpreter present in four interviews. Interviews lasted approximately 60-90 minutes. Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring themes and subthemes.Preliminary findings indicate a diversity in the meaning-making of mental health among participants. While some discussed mental health in terms of stress, others approached the topic analytically, while some avoided it altogether. Participants highlighted the importance of access to external resources, such as schools, language courses, and employment, for enhancing overall well-being. Trust in FRC staff emerged as a crucial factor in seeking and receiving assistance for mental health concerns. Additionally, participants exhibited resilience, suggesting benefits of empowering them during this challenging period.Adopting a holistic approach to mental health care within FRCs is imperative. Understanding how clients construct meaning around mental health is particularly relevant for training FRC staff, who serve as primary points of contact for asylum seekers and refugees in Finland. Moreover, amplifying the voices of reception center clients can contribute to improving services and enhancing the health and well-being of this population in Finland.• It is necessary to adopt a holistic approach to mental health care within reception centers, one that addresses broader social determinants of mental health.• Trust in the staff of Finnish reception centers is a critical factor in facilitating the seeking and receiving of assistance for mental health concerns among asylum seekers and refugees.