Youth reorientation following forced migration to Norway: Mental health, cultural navigation, and the need for supportive others

Youth who have experienced conflict, loss, forced displacement, and resettlement may have increased vulnerability to mental health problems. The purpose of this study was to explore how youth with a background as refugees originating from East and Central Africa and the Middle East living in Norway understand mental health and practice self-care strategies. Eighteen youths participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes were developed describing youths’ understanding of mental health, the impact of family and culture, self-care strategies, and reorientation towards mental well-being. Participants described mental health as mood swings, influenced by thoughts, past traumas, current school-related stress, social exclusion, and limited social networks. Additional barriers to improved mental well-being and influence on self-care strategies arose from navigating between cultures and facing conflicting expectations. Some participants described their reorientation processes as meaningful, emphasizing supportive parents, peer-support, new goals, and a sense of meaning as key factors in promoting mental well-being. This study revealed that youths with refugee backgrounds employ both relational and individual strategies for reorientation and self-care, including approaches that emphasize social connection. It is important to include their perspectives to develop culturally safe interventions. Such interventions should incorporate cultural and contextual factors, promote mutual understanding, and strengthen support for newly arrived youth, their families, and those who support them, such as professionals or volunteers.