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This study explores lay perceptions of mental health among Afghan forced migrants in Finland. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 participants. Reflexive thematic analysis was used as the method of analysis. The analysis produced two main themes: external symptoms (changes in physical appearance and behavior) and internal symptoms (burdensome feelings and sensations). Participants rarely used explicit mental health terminology, preferring nuanced culture-specific, individual expressions, and indirect communication about stress and trauma. This study contributes to the understanding of Afghan forced migrants' lay perceptions of mental health and calls for culturally-safe approaches in social work and mental health services for forced migrants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the perceptions of Afghan women about existing and desired child and family services in Finland. Data was collected through interviews with 13 participants and was analyzed by Content analysis. From the perceptions expressed of the existing child and family services two themes emerged: I) Laws and Practices, and II) Providing Information. The point of view of the Afghan women on the desired child and family services were also identified in two themes: I) Increasing life skills and economic support, and II) Improving communication between service users and service providers. The social impact of this research is related to the acute need to strengthen family and children services for the welfare of immigrant children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]