Self-help groups for people with migration experience

Abstract Background Self-help groups as voluntary associations of people to jointly cope with illnesses or psychological problems are sometimes regarded as the fourth pillar of the health care system. Still, so far people with migration experience do not resp. less participate in self-help groups in Austria. The project aimed therefore on identifying related obstacles and solutions. Methods A mixed-methods approach was chosen: a systematic literature search; interviews, focus groups and workshops; including people with migration experience and experts. A concept for self-help groups was delevoped in a participatory way, piloted in Vienna and evaluated. Results The study confirmed, that the concept of self-help groups as they are usually implemented in Austria is not known among people with migration experience. But there is a great need for exchange among those with a chronic illness or their relatives. Success factors and obstacles are mainly related to the access to people with a migration experience and the way how such self-help groups are set up. Much time needs to be invested in developing a common understanding of the concept of a self-help group and in maintaining contacts. However, despite the of the personal benefit, the often stressful life situation of people with migration experience is an obstacle for continuous participation or even initiating a self-help group oneself. Conclusions The project showed, that, although the concept of self-help groups is often not known, people with a migration experience can benefit from it. But more support is needed than is usually provided by the established self-help organisations. A change in the understanding of self-help groups on the one hand and integrating such activities in services/associations working with migrants on the other hand could improve the access for people with migration experience to this important pillar of the health care system. Key messages • Several obstacles hinder people with migration experience in participating in self-help groups in Austria, e.g. the concept itself is unknown to them. • Implementing a specific concept for self-help groups with support by professionals can facilitate the access of this population group to an important part of the health care system.