Difficulties and coping strategies of Sudanese refugees: a qualitative approach

Abstract

A qualitative approach was adopted to interview 23 Sudanese refugees residing in Brisbane, Australia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to examine the participants' premigration, transit and postmigration experiences. Refugees reported traumatic and life threatening experiences during the premigration and transit phase. The difficulties during postmigration phase consisted of resettlement issues. Nevertheless, they reported using coping strategies across all phases. The coping strategies identified relied predominantly upon participant's use of religious beliefs, and cognitive strategies such as reframing the situation, relying on their inner resources and focussing on future wishes and aspirations. Social support also emerged as a salient coping strategy. The findings are useful for mental health professionals as they highlight the plight of the refugees as well as the strategies used by them to manage their traumas and stresses.