Depression Among Resettled Karen Refugees in the United States: An Exploratory Pilot Study

Due to prolonged ethnic and religious persecution, the Karen have endured numerous traumatic experiences including systematic violence and mistreatment, resulting in long-term psychological sequelae. This study examines the prevalence of depression among Karen refugees from Burma ( N = 37) using a culturally grounded mental health screening tool within a primary health care community clinic in the southern United States. A total of 48.60% met the clinical cutoff for depression. The researchers identified three themes: (a) manifestations of depression, (b) depression linked to post-migration stressors, and (c) importance of support and education about depression. Family service organizations and resettlement agencies can assist Karen refugees by connecting them with social and tangible support, as well as providing education about depression. Future research should include Karen refugees from various parts of the United States to improve generalizability.