Confronting Humanitarian Challenges: The Medical Professional's Responsibility

Abstract

An increase in humanitarian challenges has resulted in an increased demand for mental health resources. Social psychiatrists face a clinical and moral imperative to study and treat mental disorders precipitated or impacted by sociocultural events. Immigration detention is but one example of a setting that can take a toll on the mental health of those detained. Psychiatrists working in detention settings do not have immunity from feeling overwhelmed and may suffer the effects of moral distress. Many question how to take action beyond direct clinical care. Here we present a case study on physician action to address the humanitarian crisis of family separation and family detention of immigrants at the US. Southern border. Subject matter and advisory committee experts for the US Department of Homeland Security were recruited to identify concerns and provide recommendations in this guide for action.

Presenters

Pamela Mc Pherson
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Louisiana, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Innovation Showcase

Theme

The Power of Institutions

KEYWORDS

Immigration advocacy mental health

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