Asylum-seeker women: Coping strategies and mental wellbeing

Background: Asylum seekers in Australia are subjected to various punitive measures that can affect their psychological wellbeing. The capacity of asylum seekers to adapt and cultivate effective coping strategies can enhance their resilience, facilitate their settlement processes and promote their overall mental health. Aim: This study aims to explore the coping strategies employed by women who are asylum-seekersthat have the potential to enhance their resilience post migration. Method: A semi-structured qualitative study was conducted with asylum-seeker women from Iran. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic analysis. Results: Seventeen participants described their experiences of applying various strategies to enhance their coping ability, resilience and maintain their mental wellbeing when facing ongoing challenges. Problem-solving strategies included social engagement, adjusting life plans and seeking support from formal and informal resources. Emotion-focussed strategies were positive thinking and maintaining hope, avoidance and spirituality. While emotion-focussed strategies enabled the women to manage their stresses temporarily, problem-solving strategies allowed them to effectively address the challenges they faced after migration. Conclusion: Providing supportive resources for asylum seekers, removing stigma and developing community ties may assist individuals in improving their coping skills, resilience and mental wellbeing.