The impact of immigration detention on mental health: an updated systematic review

BACKGROUND: The number of refugees and people seeking asylum worldwide has risen significantly over the past 10 years. These individuals are often placed in immigration detention facilities following their migration journey. Previous studies, including a systematic review conducted in 2018, indicate that detention may be associated with an increase in mental health difficulties. The present review aimed to update the 2018 review by reporting on more recent studies investigating the prevalence of mental disorders and symptoms in immigration detainees, and whether the length of detention increases the likelihood of such disorders. METHODS: Six databases were searched for quantitative, peer-reviewed studies reporting on the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms or disorders in adults and children who had experienced immigration detention. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data. The findings were presented narratively. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included, reporting on a total of 2777 participants. The prevalence of significant mental health problems was high in both adults and children subjected to immigration detention. The most common disorders reported were post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Children also experienced high levels of emotional dysregulation and behavioural symptoms. In adults, longer durations of detention were consistently associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing mental health difficulties. Factors related to detention environments were also associated with the prevalence of psychological symptoms and diagnosable mental health conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, this review confirms that immigration detention has negative mental health consequences across a variety of immigration detention facilities and detainee characteristics. Recommendations based on findings are presented, including eliminating child detention, imposing upper limits to the duration of adult detention, improving mental health screening pre-detention, and providing evidence-based psychological care during detention. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023487205.